Bath Life – Issue 504 by MediaClash

ISSUE 504 / CHRISTMAS 2023 / £3

121

INSPIRED PRESENT IDEAS

ISSUE 504 / CHRISTMAS 2023 / SLEIGHED IT!

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT COCKTAILS SHAKEN AND STIRRED THE BATH WAY

JUMPER FOR JOY!

HOW TO ELEVATE THE FESTIVE SWEATER

SNOW PATROL

SEARCHING OUT THE CITY’S BEST WINTER SCAPES

WRITTEN IN STONE

HOW BATH ABBEY WAS THE ART GALLERY OF OLD

QUINCE CHARMING

THE WONDER OF WINTER’S BOUNTY

SLEIGH QUEEN THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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EDITOR’S LETTER

PHOTO BY DAVE WAT TS FOR THE NEW T IN SOMERSET; W W W.THENEW TINSOMERSET.COM

or this e itor’s letter I ust o my Christmas hat in thanks to our pretty darn brilliant columnist, David Flatman. His incisive utterances always strike a chord, even if we aren’t all former rugby players with a penchant for Land Rovers and meat. In his special festive column (page 21), he talks about those magical Christmas times when he was young probably being the best days of his life. And I realise he’s right. Even if everything else wasn’t alright in the world, that exquisite memory of unwrapping a much longed for Tiny Tears at the age of four is so clear, so tangible, that I can recall how her wet little plastic cheek felt against mine to this day. It’s hard to think what might delight me as a grown up quite so much as that weeping doll once did. But then I started compiling the gift list for this issue (starts on page 29) and each locally sourced item is a genuine delight. (Not that I’m hinting. *slides mag across to husband*) This isn’t any thrown together from the Argos catalogue gift list – this is a lovingly curated and carefully thought out collection. As regular readers of Bath Life already know, our schtick is about bigging up and supporting the businesses, the people, the indies, the places, and the spaces that make Bath and the surrounds so totally won erful hich is why you’ll fin everything – from an annual membership to the out-of-this-world Newt In Somerset right through to Throwing Shapes, who makes fabulous earrings to sell on Etsy and at Green Park Station – as part of our present inspiration suggestions. Enjoy the browse, and see you next issue!

SARAH MOOLLA Oh, come let us adore them – pretty cool Yuletide vibes coming from The Newt in Somerset’s woodland crew

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

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PHOTO BY @DUNK ABLEBATH

Issue 504 / Christmas 2023 COVER Our gorgeous snow queen is photographed at The Newt in Somerset by Dave Watts; www.thenewtinsomerset.com

GIFT GUIDE

29 XMAS INSPO With 121 options, there’s something for everyone

THE ARTS 55 56 60 63 64

ARTS INTRO Trip the light fantastic at Stourhead WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, comedy, art, and more CULTURE CLUB SPECIAL A clue? Oh. Yes. It. Is. BOOKS Mr B on fab festive reads MONUMENTS Bath Abbey, the art gallery of old

FOOD & DRINK 70 74 80 82

RESTAURANT REVIEW It’s love at first bite at Bath Priory COCKTAILS In good spirits with Bath’s mixologists FOOD & DRINK Quince’s merits and a Bath chef on MasterChef KITCHEN GRILL Cyril Royer on a French Christmas

LIFESTYLE

84 FASHION Tis the season for bad sweaters, or is it? 86 BEAUTY Meet the cosmetic creator with a story to tell

102

NETWORK

91 NETWORK LEAD Bath Life Network Lunch with Professor Ian

White, vice chancellor of the University of Bath

95 CAREER PATH Nathan Sheppard’s unconventional job route 96 NETWORK NEWS Local business news, views, and interviews

PROPERTY

102 SHOWCASE A dazzling home in St James’s Square 105 BATH PROPERTY AWARDS All the winners and the glitz

DEPARTMENTS

16 SPOTLIGHT Bath and the chocolate factory 19 INSTAS Dreaming of white Christmas 21 FLATLINE Flats on all the festive feels 22 SCENE Hello, party people! 114 BATH LIVES Meet Samaritan Karen Baldwin

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Sarah Baker, Nic Bottomley, Marianne Cantelo, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, Verity Genco, Rachel Ifans, and Oliver Taylor Marketing executive and social media assistant Grace Goodall grace.goodall@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel. north@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Production and distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash. co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash. co.uk Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

SPOTLIGHT Christmas cinema

WALKING IN A WONKA WONDERLAND As Wonka hits the big screen, we look at when the magic came to Bath

PHOTO BY ANDY BENNET T

Timothée Chalamet came to Bath to film the origin story of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka

Wonka, a new and very eagerly anticipated prequel to Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory starring the delicious Timothée Chalamet, along with Hugh Grant, Olivia Coleman, and Rowan Atkinson, is released in cinemas on 8 December. And this tale of pure imagination is Willy Wonka’s origin story, as it follows Wonka’s journey to create the best tasting chocolate in the world, and tells how he met his future factory workers, the mysterious Oompa Loompas. Part of this ourney was fil e here in Bath It was ctober when the arner Bros tu io tea escen e on the city to recor scenes with i oth e an the cast in lots of istinctive city centre locations inclu in Bath bbey Para e ar ens an the Para on te s on alcot treet Pulteney Bri e was also iven a isty aura for e tra at os here as fil in took lace un er the pillared Colonnades, which were dusted with snow. And, for those who claimed to have caught a glimpse of Timothée – and there were many hopefuls – it was a real Golden Ticket moment. For more: www.wonkamovie.net

Some of the Wonka scenes were filmed in and outside Bath Abbey

The Warner Bros team can be seen filming under the Colonnades

16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY ADAM & CL AIRE POWELL; W W W.APARTMENTBATH.COM

Snow cannons over Pulteney Bridge

SPOTLIGHT

SNOW PATROL

COMPILED BY GR ACE GOODALL

In search of the most beautiful white-coated scenes of Bath

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN © BETTY BHANDARI BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY; WWW.BETTYBHANDARIBRANDPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

“Every unused gadget will be delivered to children whose Christmas Days won’t be like ours”

With bells on

Flats is embracing the true spirit of Christmas, wish lists and all s a rown u it’s very important to stop, close your eyes an re e ber ust what a buzz it was as a child to wake up on Christmas Day. To see that Father Christmas had been, and to pour like obsessive Taylor wift fans runnin for the best s ot into that zone of pure pleasure (never mind that it was ust the sa e sittin roo in which you watched telly after school and in which you dumped your school bags and hoodies every other day of your life), heart racing, and pile into your mountain of presents. It was, I think, the purest pleasure I ever felt. Again, as grown ups, we often like to do our best to sound more cultured, more intelligent, less grabby and childish when we’re aske about the best ays of our lives We love to talk about the days our children were born r in the case of e athletes like me, we like to mention certain achievements and victories. I loved playing sport, and I love my children more than any gift anyone could ever buy me, but really? Were the days they

were born actually more fun than Christmas Days as a kid? Nope. Nowhere near. They were stressful and scary. They were gory and unforgiving. The result was miraculous, every ti e but the ays were ainly horrific And as for big days in sport, er, who cares? Not me. This father is certainly one who needs to take a minute to consider how fun Christmas should be for his children. Constantly I worry that my lot are too spoiled. Constantly I a r that no we won’t ust ive in an ive them everything they want. The older two haven’t believed for a long time now so, in our house at least it’s a y an te u y ordering goods online and paying for them all. The romance is long gone, but the wish lists re ain ust as lon No they’re lon er than ever. It all makes me feel a bit ill. The cost of everything is part of it, but also the knowledge that no matter how much they receive it won’t be enou h hey will want ore within ays n it’s not their fault I blame the parents… I blame other things

too but they’re uch too broa an borin for this page. Does this mean, then, that I ought to enforce a level of festive realism that I know as a rown u to be a ro riate houl I use my greater life experience to hammer home the overwhelming gratitude I know they shoul feel for the lives they live It’s a tough one. Over the last few Christmases I have done this to a oint y wife an I have one ore towar s ettin the e eriences’ than ob ects I’ve looke at their wish lists an declared them silly. Childish. Greedy. What a bloody hypocrite I am. As my wife ointe out last week f course they’re chil ish hey’re chil ren f course they’re ree y hey’re chil ren he wasn’t wron o I have a ecte a volte face an a oin to e eri ent with caving in (almost) entirely and giving these ree y bran obsesse totally nor al gorgeous kids the Christmas morning they really want I’ sorry but I will not s en in thirty quid on eye liner for a child, but otherwise I will do my best to remember. To remember how I felt on those days. renaline s ikin Look u y Look a y eaven I’ oin to allow it an I’ oin to en oy it but there are a cou le of thin s we’re oin to o first Be roo s are being aggressively cleared out, by my children, and every item of unworn clothing, every unused gadget or forgotten trinket will be delivered to children whose Christmas ay won’t be like ours e will ive foo too, some of which will be paid for by my children. They have agreed to empty their bank accounts to this end (they obviously have bu er all but I’ll to it u o efully – hopefully – their Christmas ecstasy will be enhance in the knowle e that they’ve iven as well as received. Let’s see how it o o oes David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 21

SPONSORED CONTENT

CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCES There is no better gift than experience

GIVE THE GIFT OF CREATIVITY THIS CHRISTMAS Marmalade House run award-winning courses including How to Paint Furniture to Professional Standards; Colour and Interior Design for the Home; and are now FROM very pleased to be launching a brand new Advanced Techniques in Furniture Painting course in 2024. This will give painters the opportunity to learn marbling, PP rust techniques, faded grandeur for beautifully aged pieces, and how to bespoke work with new finishes. For those who would like to refresh their knowledge, it is also running half day refresher courses for anyone who has undertaken a full day course. All courses take place in the bespoke studios in Kelston, with all day parking and their famous farmhouse lunches. Gift Vouchers are available for all courses, and are valid for six months.

£155

Visit www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk or call 01225 445855 for more information or to purchase.

GIVE THE GIFT OF A CANDLE POURING WORKSHOP We provide a place where friends can gather, connect and create. Our candle pouring workshops offer an opportunity to create lasting memories and a candle that is unique to you. Come celebrate this festive season with us, with our new exclusive fragrances on our Candle Pouring or Nutcracker workshop! Receive 20 per cent in-store for 30 days after your workshop – perfect for Christmas shopping! Gift vouchers are available in-store and online. For more: 01225 984826 www.designworkscollective.co.uk Visit at: 2 New Bond Street Buildings, Bath BA1 1BL

@paddywaxcandlebaruk

GIVE THE GIFT OF ENTERTAINMENT Bath Box Office is the ultimate destination for tickets to festivals and events across the city. It sells tickets for Bath Forum, Bath Abbey, The Bath Festival, Chapel Arts Centre, Krowd Keepers Magic Show, Bath Bachfest and many more. Whether it’s music, film, comedy, or theatre give the gift of choice and an experience to look forward to. For more: 01225 463362 www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

GIVE THE GIFT OF A DAY BOAT TRIP Why not treat someone to a day out on our self-drive dayboat. We have vouchers available for a perfect Christmas gift. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, reward your staff or valued customers, or simply enjoy a day out with friends and family, a trip on our day narrowboats will be a memorable day out.

FROM

£200

The boat accommodates up to 12 people and you can order a full cream tea, or grazing boxes when you book with us. Please visit www.sallynarrowboats.co.uk for more details or call us on 01225 864923 to book your voucher.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

SPONSORED CONTENT

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE BRISTMAS Come along and join the festive fun in the city that has it all... you can even give the gift of Christmas with the LOVE BRISTOL GIFT CARD.

ristol is magical in every season (biased, us?) but Christmas is where it really shines bright – especially with more Christmas lights than ever illuminating the streets this year! Whether you’re Christmas shopping, Christmas eating, or Christmas partying, it’s the place for every kind of Christmassing...

A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

Save Santa a job and head to Park Street where you’ll find all the shops you need to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for delicious teas and treats at Bird & Blend Tea Co, contemporary bespoke jewellery at Diana Porter, wardrobe staples at Fred Perry, sustainable garms at Thrift or the ideal art set at Cass Art, you can find it all under the glow of the street’s signature festoon lighting illuminating the winter nights.

FULL BELLIES AND FULLER HEARTS

Word on the street is that a giant Elf on the Shelf® is arriving in Bristol in December at various buildings throughout the city. So, why not stop for a bite to eat while you’re out elf-spotting? The Old City is a hotspot for Bristol’s foodies, with its huge array of diverse cuisines in its enviable restaurants, where you’re sure to find somewhere for the whole family to eat well, even by December standards. From classics like sourdough pizza at Franco Manca, to food from further shores like Vietnamese at Pho or Pan-Asian at Four Wise Monkeys, there’s no lack of eateries in the area to fuel up the family on a December evening out.

A CHRISTMAS CHEERS

Looking for a Christmas tipple? ‘Tis the season to be merry after all…Bristol is known for its eclectic night out hotspots. Whether you’re looking to dance the day away at a Christmas brunch at Aluna or Blame Gloria, enjoy a classy cocktail or two at Milk Thistle, or a full-blown night out in Mr Wolf’s, celebrate the season in style in one of Bristol’s many iconic venues. If no-lo alcohol is more your vibe, the city serves up some of the tastiest zero % cocktails so you can join the fun without risking a sore head when wrapping duty calls.

A XMASSY DATE

If there’s one thing Bristol has no shortage of, it’s world-class events – and even more so over the Christmas period! The city’s leading cultural institution, Bristol Beacon, has reopened its doors with a new name and a whole host 52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

of Christmas events, including family-friendly showings of The Snowman accompanied by a live orchestra to bring the film’s beloved soundtrack to life. It wouldn’t be the Christmas season without a pantomime so head to Bristol Hippodrome to see all your Neverland favourites in Peter Pan. Finally, for a beautiful exploration of nature that’s perfect for children and parents alike, head to Bristol Old Vic to catch Four Seasons, a theatrical love letter to nature. n For more information on these events, places to visit and more, search Visit Bristol today www.visitbristol.co.uk In partnership with:

Everyone’s welcome to our place this

CHristmas

THE ARTS

THE DAY OF THE DEAD (DIA DE LOS MUERTOS) BY TERRY FL A X TON

S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC There’s no shortage of amazing Christmas light displays in and around the city, but Stourhead is always pretty astounding – and worth the 40 minute drive into Wiltshire. The hold-your-breath, blow-your-mind, larger-than-life illuminations are accompanied by music from Sony, making the trail a seasonal sensory sensation. New features this year include a Sea of Light stretching into the distance; dazzling crystals suspended in trees; and the Liquid Lake which fills the sky with all the colours of the rainbow, aurora-style. For more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55

PHOTO BY CASPER FARRELL; W W W.CASPERFARRELL.CO.UK

WHAT’S ON 2 December – 30 December

It’s the most wonderful time of year when Bath is illuminated by the Bath Christmas Lights Trails

EXHIBITIONS Until 9 December

GALLERY 23 A pop-up art shop and exhibition at 23 Milsom Place, featuring six local artists: Nicola Davis, Alex Compton, Samuel Lindup, Glen Mason, Dr Harriet Shortt and Jason Dorley Brown. www.milsomplace.co.uk

Until 22 December

CONNECTING THREADS Taking inspiration from objects in the Museum of East Asian Art’s collection, students from the Art & Design department of Bath College were challenged to create garments which would appeal to their generation. www.meaa.org.uk

Until 31 December

BRICK AMERICA n o the scale su er fun creative exhibition that uses the ordinary yet extraordinary Lego to celebrate the famous buildings, faces, and even events of the USA. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 1 January

GRUPPENAUSSTELLUNG A multidisciplinary celebration of Hauser & Wirth’s Swiss heritage,

56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with more than 20 artists, including Martin Creed, Cindy Sherman, Richard Jackson, Jason Rhoades, Mika Rottenberg, Camille Henrot, Pipilotti Rist, Dieter Roth, and Björn Roth. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 4 January

BEST OF HIDDEN Exploring the very best of Hidden Gallery’s extraordinary collection, including signed and limited editions from Picasso, Warhol, Hockney, Chagall, Emin, Lowry, Matisse. www.hiddengallery.co.uk

Until 7 January

WHEN DREAMS CONFRONT REALITY: SURREALISM IN BRITAIN An extensive that encompasses the diversity of British surrealism and its uro ean in uences with works by artists such as Max Ernst, Julian Trevelyan, F.E. McWilliam and Man Ray. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 7 January

GAIL MASON: THE UNSEEN LANDSCAPE Bristol-based artist Gail Mason plays with variation and harmony resulting in the feeling of being in an environment. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 13 January

LINDSEY BULL: INTO THE NIGHT A solo exhibition of paintings by British artist Lindsey Bull. Drawing inspiration from the avant-garde storytelling of fashion editorials, the androgynous and eni atic fe ale fi ures e u e a timeless glamour. www.boleeworkman.com

Until 17 January

BATH OPEN STUDIOS AT THE RUH This group of artists, who put together no fewer than seven local art trails, make up an eclectic collection of work in the corridors of the RUH. www.artatruh.org

Until 14 April

GWEN JOHN: ART AND LIFE IN LONDON AND PARIS Curated by Dr Alicia Foster, in partnership with Pallant House Gallery and the Holburne, this retrospective of the Welsh artist wen ohn is the first in 20 years. Known for her selfportraits, quiet domestic interiors, and portraits of other women, this collection explores her remarkable career. www.holburne.org

Until 22 June

FROM HONG KONG TO BATH: A LIFELONG JOURNEY OF COLLECTING Combining a series of rare historical photographs with 30 treasures from the Museum of East Asian Art, the collection uncovers hidden stories of its late founder, Brian McElney. www.meaa.org.uk

8 December

BATH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS FAIR Since its innovative creation in 2020, the Bath Contemporary Artists Fair held at Green Park Station has showcased more than 600 artists. www.bcaf.co.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA Until 23 December

THE TURN OF THE SCREW The Turn of the Screw, based on Henry James’s famous novella, is reimagined for the Ustinov with the accompanying music of Benjamin Britten, performed with two ianos ute an celeste an le by music director Henry Websdale. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

PHOTO BY MARK DAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT’S ON them for a bewitching and hilarious festive tale with enchanting live music and humour for all ages. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

14 – 15 December

POOL (NO WATER) A visceral play about the fragility of friendship and resentment inspired by success. Performed by Bath Spa Productions and directed by Kirstie Davis. www.burdallsyard.co.uk

MUSIC PHOTO BY JOHNNY HATHAWAY

7 December

Until 13 January

WENDY: A PETER PAN STORY Wendy is growing up fast, perhaps a little too fast. Between her homework and caring for her family, Wendy dreams of one last chil hoo a venture In y Peter and his friend Tink, a mischievous pair who can’t or won’t grow up. At the Egg and suitable for ages 6+. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

7 December – 7 January

SLEEPING BEAUTY It’s that time of year again – oh yes it is. And, if you turn to page 60, you’ll fin our hrist as ulture s ecial with five of the festive ain players. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

8 December

WORLD CUP AFTER PARTY: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE RUGBY England Rugby heroes James Haskell and Mike Tindall, and former Sky Sports rugby presenter Alex Payne, visit Bath Forum to share their own World Cup stories and recap all the action from the Rugby World Cup in France this autumn. www.bathforum.co.uk

9 December

BS3 SANTA Created by comic actor Stewart Wright during the pandemic, this was originally designed to be performed on people’s doorsteps. BS3 Santa has evolved into an interactive show, now at Bath City Farm for two amazing outdoor shows. www.bathcityfarm.org.uk TOP TO BOTTOM: BS3 Santa comes to Bath City Farm on 9 December; Visit American Museum during its Winter Wonderland season, which is hosting a felting workshop on 19 December; The Enchanted Christmas show comes to Westonbirt Arboretum; The evil Snow Queen from The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is just one of the new exhibits at Longleat’s Festival of Light

13 – 24 December

THE STOLEN WINTER LIGHT The critically acclaimed Greedy Pig Theatre Company invite you to join

THE WURZELS XMAS PARTY WITH SUPPORT FROM CORKY From their quintessentially West Country cover of Kaiser Chiefs’ Ruby, to the hip-hop version of their classic number 1 hit Combine Harvester through to the timeless, every-student’s-favourite I am a Cider Drinker, this is the Wurzels at their most wonderful. www.komedia.co.uk

8 December

CHRISTMAS CAROL SINGING WITH GRENVILLE JONES AND THE BATH WELCOME CHORUS Join Grenville Jones and his group of Christmas carol singers in the Gainsborough Hotel Chapel for an afternoon of delightful carol singing and festive songs, mulled wine and, of course, mince pies. www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

9 December

A TUDOR NOEL The fund-raising concert in aid of the Holburne Museum will showcase some of the talented young singers from Dowland Youth Works (DYW), accompanied on the lute by Sam Brown, and directed by Laurence Williams, who is the musical director for DYW. www.holburne.org

15 December

CAROLS IN THE CIRCUS Join the Circus Area Residents for its annual carol singing charity fundraiser. Music is provided by the Salvation Army and there’s a special guest star, acclaimed soloist Nicole Medinn. www.carabath.com

16 December

BATH PHIL & THE SNOWMAN Is it really Christmas if you haven’t seen Raymond Briggs’s The Snowman? Make it extra special this year by seeing it on the Bath Forum big screen, accompanied by a live orchestra. www.bathforum.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

WHAT’S ON Until 22 December

CHRISTMAS IN THE BALL ROOM Explore the Bath Assembly Rooms, which will be adorned with Christmas trees and decorations under the gigantic original chandeliers. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Until 23 December

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT The always impressive National Arboretum takes on a whole new level of magic and majesty during the festive season when the forests are illuminated in spectacular fashion with mesmerising installations. www.forestryengland.uk

Until 24 December

FATHER CHRISTMAS’ GROTTO AT MILSOM PLACE Much more than your usual grotto, the Milsom Place version is a fun interactive experience in the heart of Bath with elves, gifts and the man himself. He’s much in demand, so could be worth booking your time slot. www.fatherchristmasbath.co.uk ABOVE: Sing along to Walking in the Air when Bath Forum screens The Snowman accompanied by a live orchestra, on 16 December; BELOW: Show off your Torvill and Dean moves (or not, as the case may be) at Bath on Ice in Victoria Park

20 December

LOST IN MUSIC It’s a 32-top-tune disco inferno at Bath Forum with a live band and phenomenal vocalists performing the best of the ’70s from Donna Summer to Diana Ross, with everybody who’s anybody in between. www.bathforum.co.uk

COMEDY

Until 16 December

a new venue, Nowhere, a bar which was formerly the Green Park Tavern on Lower Bristol Road, with Carey Marx, Eleri Morgan and Adam Flood taking to the floor and sharing the laughs. www.bathcomedy.com

CHRISTMAS SPECIALS

Until 9 December

KRATER CHRISTMAS SPECIALS For a festive comedy extravaganza, and to stay merry and bright, head to Komedia every Friday and Saturday nights. www.komedia.co.uk

BRLSI CHRISTMAS MARKET Find the perfect unique and locally made gift at the inaugural BRLSI Christmas Makers Market on Queen Square, a cosy indoor market offering local makers the chance to showcase their talents. www.brlsi.org

10 December

Until 10 December

MARK WATSON: SEARCH Mark Watson’s 12-year-old son has just got a phone. His 70-year-old dad has been through the most frightening experience of his life. Both a dad and a kid himself, around the midpoint of his life, the Taskmaster star comes to Komedia to consider the search for meaning that we’re all on, with or without Google. www.komedia.co.uk

14 December

BATH COMEDY CLUB Bath Comedy Club is appearing at

58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET More than 200 traders are offering their wares from gorgeously bedecked twinkly chalets, selling everything from gin to jewels and from ceramics to soap. Accompanying the seasonal shopping is a whole variety of Christmassy sounds, including music from Charlie Greenwood, the Rock Choir, the Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society, Sassparella, and light classical and jazz from The Bissboro Flute Trio. www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

including Bath Abbey and The Corridor, brought to life with magical illuminations, thanks to BANES, Bath BID and Milsom Place. www.welcometobath.co.uk

Until 3 January

BATH ON ICE Get your skates on and head down to Victoria Park, where along with the real-ice ice rink, now back for an 11th year, you’ll find Mogul’s Alpine Bar and Glow Golf for that winter wonderland Scandi feel. www.bathonice.co.uk

Until 7 January

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT Along with such hardy perennial favourites as the 20-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree show and the Santa Train, new exhibits include scenes from The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Cinderella, Snow White, The Wizard of Oz, and Winnie the Pooh. www.longleat.co.uk

Until 7 Jan

CHRISTMAS AT THE CRESCENT No.1 Royal Crescent is celebrating Christmas this year in true Georgian style with teetering sugar sculptures, a mouse trail, and highly-scented dried oranges in the servants’ hall, where visitors can arrange to meet Father Christmas until 24 December. www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT DYRHAM PARK The house is dressed in the style of five different eras, from Tudor times right up to the 20th century, with the festive writings by Samuel Pepys, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens brought to life. Outside, on the 270 acre site, the Christmas trees are decorated with golden pears, plus there’s a Christmas quiz trail, and on selected dates local choirs are singing. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Until 31 December

Until 7 January

Until 31 December

WINTER WONDERLAND A festive, hand-crafted, Christmas experience awaits at the American Museum and Gardens, with hundreds of beautiful, artisan decorations, including an 18-foot Nordmann fir tree from Langford Lakes taking pride of place in Central Hall. There’re also crafts, activities and workshops, including a felt art workshop on 19 December. On 18 and 22 December, there are festive storytelling sessions. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 1 January

FAMILY CHRISTMAS ADVENT TRAIL AT PRIOR PARK Spread throughout the garden at Prior Park this December are 24 doors, and behind each one is a new set of festive themed riddles and pictures. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Until 2 January

BATH’S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TRAIL See Bath’s streets and buildings,

CLARKS VILLAGE ICE RINK The 550-square-metre ice rink features real ice and is custom built and undercover for the Christmas season at Clarks Village. www.clarksvillage.co.uk

2 – 3 December

NEPTUNE CHRISTMAS MARKET A weekend of local businesses selling lovely goods in the gorgeous Neptune showroom, from festive decorations to local cheese and olives. www.neptune.com

3 December

SANTA AND ELF RUN Dorothy House’s ever-popular Santa and Elf Run returns with a 0.5 or 5km run or walk route around the Hospice in Winsley to raise funds for vital end of life care in Bath, North Somerset and North and West Wiltshire. www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

CULTURE CLUB CHRISTMAS SPECIAL With the cracker cast of Theatre Royal Bath’s Sleeping Beauty

ave those wands! Boo the baddie! And revel in the innuendo! It’s that time of year again (oh yes it is) when we party with a panto at Theatre Royal Bath. This year it’s Sleeping Beauty, 7 December – 7 January, and here we meet (we did, we did, we did) the main cast to put our Christmas Culture Club questions to them. JON MONIE, WHO PLAYS LESTER THE JESTER, lives

in Holt, and as well as being an actor, television presenter, awardwinning writer and comedian, is a Bath panto legend with more than 1,100 Bath pantomime

60 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

performances under his belt. He has written this year’s Sleeping Beauty production, with many other panto peroductions of his being staged in theatres nationwide by UK Productions. Favourite Christmas TV show

The West Wing, season 1, episode 10: In Excelsis Deo. A cracking episode from my favourite TV show ever. It won the brilliant ichar chi an y Best Christmas film ever

Gremlins. It’s the perfect comedy horror fil I think of it often Favourite Christmas song

For a spine-tingling tale of bitter disappointment, Greg Lake’s I Believe in Father Christmas is hard to beat. Having said that, you might be disappointed.

Best panto joke

I always have a favourite panto joke that I really look forward to delivering every performance. This year it’s near the end of act 2, scene 4. And that’s all you’re getting! Come see for yourself ! Best gift received

I don’t live in Bath, but a friend who does always lets me park on his driveway for the duration of the pantomime season. It remains the greatest single act of human kindness I’ve ever experienced. Best festive snack

I’m always happy to see a Terry’s Chocolate Orange over the Christmas period. Normally I’d laugh in its face. New Year’s resolution

To never feed a mogwai after midnight. Been there, done that. SARAH JANE BUCKLEY IS FAIRY SNOWFALL

and is best known as Kathy Barnes in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks. Her

many stage credits include Blood Brothers, Calendar Girls: The Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Elvis the Musical, Twist and Shout, and September in the Rain. Favourite Christmas TV show

I honestly don’t have time to watch Christmas TV, as I’m always in Pantoland having fun. But if I get the chance, a Christmas special of a good TV show is always a treat. Best festive film ever

The Holiday. I still believe in fairytales and I love how romantic this movie is. Favourite Christmas song

It has to be Mariah’s All I Want For Christmas… I always smile and dance when that’s playing. But when I hear Noddy Holder leave me a voice message saying “It’s Chriiiiiiisssstassss” I know we are going to have a good time. Best Christmas gift ever

My little Shih Tzu dog, Lilly. My parents bought her for me and I rushed home from panto in Reading to pick her up. I took her back on Boxing Day and she was with me in the dressing

PHOTO CREDIT FREIA TURL AND

Group Sleeping Beauty: Jon Monie, Sarah Jane Buckley, Neil McDermott, Maisie Sellwood, Nick Wilton

ARTS room, which I was sharing with Michaela Strachan, who bought her lots of presents. She spent the next 13 years on tour with me. An unusual Christmas

so I get new favourites all the time. There is a song called Must Be Santa by Bob Dylan that is little known but deserves to be an absolute classic.

When I was in Jamaica, performing on Royal Caribbean Cruises. I found it very strange to be in the heat on Christmas Day.

Best panto comedy moment

Best festive snack

Best gift ever received

Mince pies with lashings of thick cream. Also, I love cranberry sauce, so I have it with everything at this time of year. NEIL MCDERMOTT, AKA PRINCE VINCENT, is

well known to television audiences for his roles as Ryan Malloy in BBC1’s EastEnders since 2009, and Dr Ralph Ellis in three series of The Royal. His numerous screen credits also include Doctor Who, Inspector George Gently, Kiss of Death, and Rosemary and Thyme. Previous panto appearances include playing the title role in Aladdin alongside Sir Ian McKellen and Roger Allam at London’s Old Vic Theatre. Christmas Day will be spent...

After our shows on Christmas Eve I will be racing to a small village outside Windsor called Datchet to be with my family. We have a full house this year of both sets of grandparents, my brotherin-law and sister-in-law, and my wife and three kids. We have a new baby girl who will be having her first hrist as so it’s oin to be very special. Favourite Christmas TV show

Well, EastEnders always makes you feel like your own life isn’t that bad at Christmas! Best festive film ever

Home Alone is a classic. I remember y ki s watchin it for the first time and laughing till they cried. Favourite Christmas song

This is hard, because we run a youth theatre where we put on Christmas shows and are always looking for new Christmas songs,

I look forward to delivering my ‘riding a horse without a horse’ panto gag.

I’ll have to be a bit cheesy and say the love and laughter of a family at Christmas is the best gift a dad can get. Christmas snack choice

It doesn’t even have to be Christmas for me to devour a Terry’s Chocolate Orange. It’s not Terry’s, it’s mine!! New Year’s resolution

Since the pandemic I’ve been trying to do more writing. I did write and perform in a Christmas show with a friend of mine, Gina Beck, at the Charing Cross Theatre whilst lots of theatre was closed. I’m now writing a TV series with Jess Ransom, who I performed with in Home I’m Darling with in Bath. I really want to finish it ne t year an try to et it made. Plans for 2024

I will actually be back in Bath in the New Year with the play Sleuth, which I’m very much looking forward to. It’s with the director Rachel Kavanaugh, who I did Wind in the Willows with at the London Palladium. MAISIE SELLWOOD, WHO IS PLAYING PRINCESS ROSE, is

making her Theatre Royal Bath debut, but this is not the first ti e she has laye the Princess, having starred in Sleeping Beauty last year at the Blackpool Grand Theatre. Since graduating from the BRIT School and London School of Musical Theatre, Maisie has also performed at Eurovision: Your Decision in Liverpool. Maisie lives in London, but her father lives in

“Never feed a mogwai after midnight. Been there, done that”

Nativity! It is arguably one of the best fil s of all ti e let alone the best hrist as fil P L AND SHIIIINE!!!’’

2019, Nursie in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 2017, and Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk in 2015. For television, Nick has played market inspector Mr Lister as a series regular in EastEnders since 2008, and has also appeared in Heartbeat, Doc Martin, The Bill, Casualty and the children’s show Big Meg, Little Meg. Nick, who lives in Whitstable in Kent, will be spending Christmas Day in Bath in an Airbnb with wife Lynette, and dog Winnie.

Best Christmas song ever

Favourite Christmas TV show

Bath, and that’s where she’ll be spending Christmas Day this year. Favourite Christmas TV show

I love re-watching the Gavin and Stacey Christmas Special or anything with Wallace and Gromit, but especially The Wrong Trousers. Best Christmas film ever

White Christmas, performed by The Drifters. It reminds me of Christmas morning and opening stockings. It has such an iconic opening to the song it instantly makes me feel all festive-y. Best gift ever received

My nan gave me a toy electric guitar and microphone. I am sure she is to blame for my career choice. Most memorable Christmas

Last year, at 10pm on Christmas Day, I was in a car, in the rain, down a side street in Blackpool, eating chips and doing car-ioke with my partner, as the bar in our hotel was closed. Best ever Christmas snack

The Bounties that everyone else leaves at the bottom of the tin. I also cannot eat enough cheese at this time of year. NICK WILTON RETURNS TO PLAY NANNY NORA

the panto dame, a role he has frockfille since Previous dames have included Widow Twankey in Aladdin in 2016 and 2022, Polly La Plonk in Beauty and the Beast in

Any of the Morecambe and Wise Christmas Specials. It was always the highlight of Christmas TV. Still the best TV double act of all time. So much work went into the shows, but they made it look so easy. Best Christmas movie ever

I’m not a big fan of Christmas movies in general, but I love It’s a Wonderful Life, which is a brilliant fil also White Christmas – especially the bit where they open the big doors and it’s snowing outside. I know it’s a bit corny but it always brings a tear to my eye. Favourite Christmas song

Well, of course The Pogues’ Fairytale of New York has to be right up there – I love Kirsty MacColl – and no Christmas would ever be complete without Noddy Holder and Roy Wood and those classics – Slade’s Merry Christmas Everybody and Wizzard’s I Wish it Could be Christmas Every Day. The ’70s really was a golden era for Christmas songs. Christmas cracker joke

What’s the best Christmas present? A broken drum – you just can’t beat it. Favourite Christmas snack?

Greggs vegan sausage roll.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students. We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation. For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, Kaplan International Languages Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

M There’s a flurry of wintery tales headed to Mr B’s this Christmas

“The perfect escapist snowy read”

y approach to recommending wintry reads has changed this year. In 2023, all of my recommendations will start with Winter Love by Han Suyin (Fox, Finch & Tepper, £10.99); not just because it’s the best book I’ve read this year, but because it’s so good I published it. Winter Love was first ublishe in but has been out of print for many years and is so deserving of resurrection. It’s set in London during The Blitz and centres on Red, a young medical student, who is completely entranced by new, and married, classmate Mara from the moment she lays eyes on her. Their friendship swiftly morphs into an illicit a air that lays out in the capital and over supremely awkward trips to Wiltshire and Wales. Suyin’s characters are enticingly ysfunctional an awe an her rose is exquisite. The emotional turmoil surrounding the adulterous queer romance at the heart of the story develops amidst an intolerant society set on edge by the war’s destruction. There’s something of Graham Greene’s T e nd o t e air about this short and powerful novel; particularly in the unpredictable behaviour of its main players. Winter Love isn’t the only reissue that I’m excited by this season. The arrival of the winter publishing months have brought a plethora of cosy crime books with added snow akes e have ichar s an’s popularity to thank for the fresh popularity of gentle mysteries, even if some of the most intriguing titles were written long before he began his writing career. The Long Shadow by Celia Fremlin aber was first ublishe in and begins with Imogen being phoned in the middle of the night by someone accusing her of murdering her husband – some two months after he was killed in a car crash. As if that wasn’t enough to deal with, it’s Christmas, and the accusations need fending o whilst une ecte uests start arrivin and then refusing to leave. It’s a wry and suspenseful story with more than a hint of

a Patricia Highsmith about it. Meanwhile, Mistletoe Malice by athleen arrell aber was first ublishe in the s an brou ht to the reader an even more dysfunctional set of fa ily festivities ne overbearin atriarch many reuniting family members – each with their own agenda, foible or secret – and one hi hly a able tree all co bine to ake for a hilarious but truly malicious holiday take on the season. f course seasonally a ro riate rea in works just as well for the very youngest readers. That’s where the most fun of all is to be had. Every time a grown-up comes into the shop to buy The Polar Express or The Grinch or The Jolly Christmas Postman at this time of year, it’s a wonderful thought that an over-excited child will soon treat the reading of that festive classic as a key part of their preChristmas anticipation. My favourite new addition to snowy reading for pre-schoolers this year is The Boy Who Brought the Snow by Hollie Hughes Bloo sbury he tra itional style illustrations by Anna Wilson, who also collaborated with Hughes on The Heart of a Giant, are stunning. The beautiful rhyming story accompanying those illustrations features a youn boy with no ho e who fin s a magical snow globe which, it turns out, can deliver snow to even the drabbest of cities. In a magical, whimsical and heart-warming tale, we watch Quinn experience that very first snowfall an everythin that it brin s with it. The perfect escapist snowy read for the start of the festive reading season. Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; tel: 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

MONUMENTAL MOMENTS Exploring the city’s oldest art gallery – the sculpture, plaques and monuments of Bath Abbey Words by Oliver Taylor Photography by Rich Howman

Bath Abbey has the largest collection of monuments in any UK church

ong before Bath’s now-celebrated museums and galleries were established, Bath Abbey’s monuments were one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Around the church’s walls could be seen the latest works of art by the country’s best sculptors. Meanwhile, the spa’s well-to-do but sickly visitors, buried and memorialised in the Abbey, gave rise to Henry Harington’s description of its walls: “These ancient walls, with many a mouldering bust, / But show how well Bath waters lay the dust”. The 1,526 monuments are the largest collection in any UK church or cathedral. Dating between 1572 and 1845, they tell the story of the rise of the city as a spa, and its social history. Here are six monuments selected by Oliver Taylor, who has recently written Bath Abbey’s Monuments: An Illustrated History.

THE TOMB OF BISHOP JAMES MONTAGU

James Montagu became Bishop of Bath and Wells in 1608 when the Nave of the Abbey didn’t have a roof. Montagu lavished over £140,000

64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

HISTORY

ABOVE: Lady Jane Waller and husband Sir William Waller were originally believed to be holding hands; BELOW: James Montagu became Bishop of Bath and Wells in 1608

in today’s money on the repair of the Abbey, including its roof. He loved it so much that in his will he asked to be buried in the Abbey so that others might follow his example and give generously to the church. In 1618, Montagu’s brother, Charles, paid Nicholas Johnson and William Cure the Younger over £26,000 in today’s money for the tomb. onta u’s e y was ori inally ainte like the rest of the to b

THE TOMB OF LADY JANE WALLER

Lady Jane Waller died in Bath in May 1633. Her husband, Sir William Waller, commissioned her monument in the church, which is thought to have been made by Epiphanius Evesham. It was in the church by 1639, when it was described as a “pretty passionate monument”. The tomb was vandalised by Royalist soldiers during the English Civil War because illia was a fa ous Parlia entarian o cer a uel Pe ys escribe illia ’s e y lyin with his face broken in an his swor ar was also re ove ouchin ly it is thou ht that the e ies of William and Jane were originally holding hands.

SIR WILLIAM BAKER

“20 per cent of the Abbey’s monuments commemorate those directly connected to the British Empire”

Sir William Baker (d. 1770) was an MP, director of the East India Company (1741–53), and “one of the foremost merchants trading with America” in the 1700s. He owned plantations in South Carolina and Barbados. Today, Baker would have been a multimillionaire, but his wealth from these estates was produced by enslaved people. Baker was buried at St. Swithin’s Walcot in 1770 but his monument, by John Francis Moore, was erected in the Abbey in 1776. Approximately 20 per cent of the Abbey’s monuments commemorate those, like Baker, directly connected to the British Empire.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

HISTORY James Quin was a celebrated 18th century actor

This decorative carving was uncovered beneath the Abbey floor in 2020

CATHERINE MALONE

The monument to the mysterious ‘C.M.’(Catherine Malone) has intrigued visitors to the Abbey for centuries. Catherine died on New Year’s Day 1765 and had lived in Bath for many years for her health. She was the mother of Edmond Malone, who became one of the 18th century’s most important Shakespeare scholars. Edmond probably commissioned the monument to his mother, which describes her as, “One of the most valuable Women that ever lived”. The beautiful decorative carving of a boy sleeping next to her tomb was removed in the 19th century, and was thought to be lost until archaeologists iscovere it beneath the bbey oor in The monument to Beau Nash was erected 30 years after his death

“The rector could not preach with Quin’s humorous face in his eyeline” RICHARD ‘BEAU’ NASH

Richard Nash (d. 1761), better known as ‘Beau Nash’, Bath’s Master of Ceremonies, “shaped the emerging culture of Bath fashionable society” in the 18th century. Nash’s monument is almost unique in the bbey in that it was ori inally erecte years after his eath Henry Harington raised subscriptions from the public for a tablet in the Abbey to “rescue Nash’s name from oblivion”. The Bath sculptor ohn or a e the onu ent for in to ay’s oney an the Abbey’s usual fees were waived. As such, the monument is testimony to how the church and city collaborated to commemorate one of its most important citizens.

JAMES QUIN

James Quin was one of the 18th century’s most celebrated actors. After a successful career on the London stage, he retired to Bath, enjoying an epicurean lifestyle until his death in 1766. He was privately interred in the Abbey, and three years later his monument by Bath’s foremost sculptor, Thomas King, was erected on a pillar at the south-eastern end of the nave owever the rector in the s coul not preach with Quin’s humorous face in his eyeline, so the monument was moved to its present location in the north-east corner of the Abbey. For more: Bath Abbey’s Monuments: An Illustrated History (£22, published by The History Press) is available to buy at Bath Abbey’s shop, the city’s booksellers, and online.

66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Based at Broadlands Fruit Farm in Box and just a stone’s throw from the centre of Bath. Our new saleroom will offer a suite of specialist auctions throughout the year, from fine art and antiques to retro 20th century design, toys and memorabilia. Whether you’re an auction novice or a seasoned trader, we’d love to welcome you through our doors!

FINE ART AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS

MINCE PIE & VALUATION OPEN DAY Tuesday 12th December 10am – 3pm

At Auctioneum, Broadlands Farm, Bathford UPCOMING AUCTION

MID CENTURY DESIGN & INTERIORS 29TH DECEMBER

info@auctioneum.co.uk

z Prompt and free home visits and appraisals giving professional advice in all aspects z Full collection service available – comprehensive and total house clearance work undertaken z Global market exposure – every lot published at auctioneum.co.uk and saleroom.com z Superior quality fully illustrated online catalogues – comprehensive pre-sale viewing z Probate Services – One or more of our experienced valuers will visit and carry out an appraisal – whether the contents of a small terraced house, or a large country estate.

www.auctioneum.co.uk

THE BATH PRIORY This elegant hotel restaurant is a long time, long term love for Rachel Ifans

RESTAURANT

e sat down in the lounge by the hearth. of cucu ber an sli ht kick of wasabi all in one tiny outhful I sat on one of the baggy old sofas and or y starter I chose one of auca’s s ecialities a ile of uber fresh surveye the roo n first lance it’s evon white crab with elicate ooli ra ish ol en oscietra caviar ust another won erfully cosy loun e an an intricately sha e eltic fra ework of eanut chilli cara el with a classic salon han hu e ortraits lai on to an s rinkle with yellow an ur le e ers of olo layers a chose a tartlet of uail e s braise bo ice beauties DINING DETAILS onion shi e i ushroo s an ce ow er an ar y cha s The Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath, BA1 2XT; he hi h intensity ushroo avours went look own on you boar a es await lay on well with the runny uail’s e in the i le tel: 01225 331 922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk co ee tables the wintery sunshine lints throu h Opening hours Wednesday - Sunday: dinner 6pm so rich an so unctuous a ainst the earthy the atio oor an ar chairs with in ente eliciousness of the rest of the fillin 8.30pm, and afternoon tea 12pm - 4pm bu sha es beckon you in I hit bull’s eye a ain by choosin the chef ’s Type of food Modern European with Asian influences Absolutely lovely. s ecial beef ish for y ain are an s uare Covers 40 covers inside But for e an y husban a it’s even chunks of ten er beef fillet acco anie by Outdoor space The beautiful terrace is a perfect ore s ecial than that it’s the roo where we tasty s oke brisket encase in onion an spot to dine, enjoy a glass of champagne, an aperitif ot arrie on a col an sunny anuary ay bri ht reen lova e sauce a chose a or post-dinner cup of coffee. It also hosts a separate, years a o an it’s won erful to sit an look erfectly cooke iece of wil ornish turbot more casual menu offering shared plates, for those aroun the loun e re e berin our love beautifully resente on the late with oo le who wish to dine alfresco, open from 8am until late ones s ilin back at us as we sai I o s ui ink an acco ani ents that inclu e Price The à la carte set menu is £98 per person The server tells us that The Bath Priory is in shellfish ousse sea ve etables chanterelle Disability access The Bath Priory is exemplary in a buil in hase it’s oin reat uns ri ht ushroo s ar en char ra or cla s an how well thought out their disability access is – the now an is lookin forwar to a refurb in the iso sauce well-lit restaurant is located on the ground floor ne t few years I’ at once eli hte that it’s esserts were a aster iece too y fi tart and the surface is a short pile carpet. There is ample moveable seating and there are chairs without arms oin so well an terrifie that they’ll ess coul have been fra e ust ri e fruit slices with the saggy beauty of this lovely room. lai on to of a rich white chocolate crea y In a nutshell The warmth and welcome of an old friend with the innovation and excitement of the new e ot arrie here you see in this roo base in a short an crunchy astry case with years a o e stoo here in front of the a s all uenelle of ice crea a e fro fi s mirror and our friends and family gathered fro the Priory’s ar en a ’s choice was roun I start to tell her another belter of a showsto er too an a le e are not the only eo le to have returne an blackberry sou which was slice o en to he Bath Priory over the years ea chef on arrival so that hot blackberry sauce coul auca atalin starte his career in its kitchens be oure into its wobbly innar s un er two star ichelin chef ichael aines It was an utter in ul ence to return to he an returne any years later as the boss Bath Priory after years astrono ically brin in his inventive an seasonal ishes as well as nostal ically It was reassurin to see which incor orate his love for sian cuisine that in a worl where so uch has chan e is a uses bouches were a lorious start we have brou ht two babies u to al ost he first a beef tartare cone tru e aya ulthoo in that ti e uch stays the sa e onnaise an iltshire tru e was the tiniest ost elt in the outh he Bath Priory is still a very s ecial lace for visitors an locals ice crea ’ I’ve ever ha Ne t was a avour acke but foa y li ht servin u s ectacular foo in a very s ecial settin an I can’t wait to cheese crousta e an then a beetroot an sal on tart on su er thin see what the future brin s ust on’t et ri of those ba y ol sofas astry which ana e to arry those bol avours with the freshness lease an kee the enu this incre ible

“A pile of fresh Devon white crab with delicate mooli radish and golden oscietra caviar”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 71

NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS! Bringing the rich f lavours and vibrant culture of India to the hear t of Bath

At The Sepoy Club, we are dedicated to bringing the rich flavours and vibrant culture of India to the heart of the city. With a menu featuring authentic dishes, made with the freshest ingredients, our expert chefs are poised to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or a meal, our menu will have something for everyone. Get ready to be transported to the bustling streets of India and indulge in the authentic flavours and aromas of the subcontinent. York Buildings, Broad Street, Bath, BA1 2EB

01225 464 455

info@thesepoyclub.co.uk www.thesepoyclub.co.uk

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT B

Moving and shaking with Bath’s best mixologists ecause we all want our cocktails to be more merry than a lukewarm early morning Buck’s Fizz or a can of metallic-tasting Pina Colada scrummaged from the back of the cupboard, we’ve called in the experts. This team are elevating the art of mixology to new heights, crafting Christmas cocktails with a shimmy of creativity and a whole lot of Christmas spirit.

THE STICKY TOFFEE DAIQUIRI

Made by Chris, the mixologist at Henrietta Bar in the Roseate Villa Bath, Bathwick; www.roseatehotels.com “This is a boozy twist on a festive favourite and fantastically easy to drink. The delicious flavours of apple, fig and date blend beautifully with delicate notes of fruited spice and vanilla – it’s like a sticky toffee pudding in a glass. Perfect for sipping by our warm fire, sat at candlelit tables, whilst admiring the 18ft twinkling Christmas tree.” Ingredients 35ml Sailor Jerry’s rum 15ml calvados 25ml homemade fig and date syrup (stir and simmer figs and dates in equal parts of water and sugar for 20 mins) 10ml maple syrup 15ml Anon Spirits Christmas Pudding (a fantastic alcohol-free spirit based out of Paulton) To serve, double cream with splash of vanilla essence/syrup Method Shake the Sailor Jerry’s Rum, calvados, fig and date syrup, maple syrup and Anon Spirits Christmas Pudding over ice for 10-15 seconds. Strain into your martini glass. Rinse the shaker and refill with a healthy dash of double cream and a splash of vanilla (essence or syrup) and dry shake (without ice) for 10 seconds. Then add ice, and shake again. Gently pour over the back of a spoon, on top of our daiquiri concoction. It should float akin to an Irish coffee. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top, and garnish with a single star anise.

74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Roseate’s Sticky Toffee Daiquiri

CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS Bath Cider House’s Cider Spritz

THE ELF TIPPLE

Made by Piotr Bernac, restaurant manager of the Bath Priory Hotel, Weston Road, Bath; www.thebathpriory.co.uk “This reminds me of my childhood in Poland, sitting by the fireplace enjoying my mum’s homemade spiced Christmas cake. She always used to tell us stories about Santa’s elves and their favourite drinks. Best enjoyed with our scrumptious mince pies made by our talented pastry team.” Ingredients 125ml Stream Farm natural organic apple juice 50ml Plantation Original dark double aged rum 20ml lemon juice 25ml homemade cinnamon syrup 1tbsp spiced chai powder 3 dashes angostura bitters 1 egg white or 50ml Aquafaba Method Cool a coupette glass with ice. Dry shake all the ingredients until a thick foam is formed. Add ice to the shaker and long shake. Empty the coupette and cover 1cm of the rim of the glass with the cinnamon syrup. Sprinkle a mixture of grated cinnamon stick and brown sugar on the glass to coat the syrup. To finish, double fine strain the contents of the shaker into the coupette.

CIDER SPRITZ

Made by Francis Smart, general manager at Bath Cider House, 7 Bladud Buildings, The Paragon, Bath; www.bathciderhouse.co.uk “Prosecco and cider work beautifully together. Need proof? This is already a best seller.” How to make Start by blending Bath Cider House’s own house cider with real fruit puree and juice from your chosen seasonal fruit, and serve in a flute topped up with prosecco. Works particularly well with rhubarb, strawberries, blackcurrant, and peach. The Elf Tipple by the Bath Priory

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CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS SUB TIRAMISU

White Christmas Dream from Mandalyns

Made by Damian of Sub 13, 4 Edgar Buildings, Bath; www.sub13.net “Sub 13 Tiramisu was inspired by the White Russian, a classic cocktail which contains coffee liqueur, cream and vodka, which is the cocktail’s base spirit. In our version we use unsweetened coffee liqueur as the base spirit, giving the drink its rich coffee flavour, reminiscent of a tiramisu. We also use vanilla vodka and dark rum to access sweet caramel flavours, and simple syrup to balance the bitterness of the coffee liqueur. To replicate the cream layer of the classic White Russian, we use whipped milk and cream. With a dusting of cocoa powder to replicate that classic tiramisu look.” Ingredients 20ml Mr Black’s coffee liqueur 10ml Vanilla vodka 10ml Goslings dark rum 15ml simple syrup Whipped whole fat milk and half double cream to top How to make Shake and strain ingredients over cubed ice in a rocks glass. Top with whipped half milk, half cream. Garnish with three coffee beans, and dust with cocoa powder.

WHITE CHRISTMAS DREAM

Made by Tony Cicirello, bar manager at Mandalyns, 13 Fountain Buildings, Lansdown Road, Bath; www.mandalyns.co.uk “A combination of creamy, chocolatey, and fruity flavours, along with the sweet yet well-balanced profile. Enjoyed as a decadent dessert after a nice meal or as an accompaniment the cheeseboard. Also pretty delightful as an accompaniment to watching your favourite Christmas movie whilst snuggled on the sofa.” Ingredients 25ml Cointreau or similar orange liquor 25ml Crème De Cacao 25ml Bailey’s 25ml single cream Method Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously, and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with cocoa powder and an orange peel twist.

Sub 13’s version of a White Russian

76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Festive Dining at Whatley Manor Join us to celebrate the festive season with menus full of traditional flavours. Lunch & dinner in Grey’s, private dining in The Garden Room, Michelin starred festive celebrations in The Dining Room, and a festive afternoon tea. Find out more www.whatleymanor.com Call 01666 822 888, or email reservations@whatleymanor.com

A warm welcome awaits you this season. Scan to view our festive menus.

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS

WINTER SPRITZ

Made by the team at The Cork, 11-12 Westgate Buildings, Bath; www.thecork.co.uk “A seasonal twist on the classic summery Aperol Spritz, with the sloe gin giving it a wintery twist – perfect as an aperitif to Christmas dinner.” Method Pour equal parts Sipsmith sloe gin, Aperol, and FeverTree blood orange soda in a wine glass filled with ice. Serve with orange slice on the rim.

The Cork’s Winter Spritz

MIDNIGHT MANHATTAN

Made by Raj Chakraborty, general manager of Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, Sydney Road, Bath; www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk “Perfect for a couple’s night out – this is Christmas with a kick.” How to make Martini, whisky, port, and cinnamon served in a martini glass with a twist of orange peel.

“Pretty delightful as an accompaniment to your favourite Christmas movie” Bath Spa Hotel’s Midnight Manhattan

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E

Quince, the versatile winter fruit that keeps on giving

IN SEASON WITH VERITY GENCO Quince: more than just a jelly

LET’S NOT ALLOW the barren winter landscape to fool us: there is still a bounty of seasonal goodies waiting to be savoured. The crisp chill brings out the best in grains, fruits, and veggies like parsnips and kale. But there’s one winter queen that reigns supreme in the avour e art ent for e an that’s the quince. The quince cydonia oblonga is a small fruit tree native to a region of southwest Asia that includes Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, southwestern Russia, and Turkmenistan. It had already been introduced to Britain by 1200, and it is our fortune that it thrives in regions with a distinct winter period. This fruit may

that the esh turns a vibrant ink hue on’t forget to keep the poaching syrup for a sweet drizzle over vanilla ice cream. For breakfast, try pairing chai-spiced creamy porridge with poached quince fruit and, if you’re feeling extra fancy – after all, it’s nearly Christmas – whip up a batch of quince paste (also known as membrillo paste). This preserve is made by boiling the fruit and straining the juice, the result being a sliceable aromatic paste that’s the perfect accompaniment to your Christmas cheese boards. or a great ‘homemade with love’ gift. For more recipe ideas and cooking demos, head to Verity’s Insta ram a e @ ort eflavo r

look like the apple cousin, but this yellow lady is not for eating – to try and consume one raw is to live very dangerously indeed. The bright golden yellow fruit requires a little elbow grease to peel and slice through the tou h skinne e terior an har esh but you will be rewarded with a mouthwatering aroma that will make your kitchen smell like a dream. It’s a fruit with a high level of pectin, making it perfect for jelly, jams and other preserves; its avour rofile is citrusy but entler an without the sharpness of a lime or lemon. Poach these beauties in sugar or honey with a hint of lemon, and you will be transported to a world of luxurious fragrances, and be surprised

COME TO FRUITION

Pomegranate serves Mediterranean cuisine;

INSET: The building was a former church house

80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Pomegranate, a brand new restaurant, has recently set up home in a grand former church house in the heart of Walcot Street, once home to Aqua. Founded by Serdar, Nedim an r the seater s ace with its distinctive blue mosaic bar, opened in July and serves Mediterranean cuisine rooted in Greek an urkish in uences r who is also the restaurant manager, says, “The inspiration was in part due to our personal experiences and travels to Mediterranean countries, which have exposed us to the authenticity and warmth of those culinary traditions.

“We have all been inspired by the way food brings people together, fostering a sense of community and celebration. “Nedim is the chef and, with the team, will be combining fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and bold spices to create harmonious and satisfying dining.” or more www ome ranate at o

FOOD & DRINK

TV DINNER he e ecutive chef of Bath’s obun restaurant asae raser has ste e away fro the sushi an sashi i to a ear on our screens in resti ious BB show MasterChef: The Professionals o etin with chefs the ustralian born asae i e iately a e her ark on the co etition i ressin in heat si urin the astry skills roun with a le tarte tatin an her si nature ishes a rack of la b an a essert which was her take on strawberries cha a ne an elly which took her throu h to knock out week asea says akin art in MasterChef is a rea co e true ookin has always been a art of y life an this has been the tou hest an ost rewar in thin I’ve one so far It’s been the bi est secret to kee but the e erience is life chan in o iscover the show’s final outco e tune in on ece ber For more: www.robun.co.uk

NEWS FEED The Après Ski Bar has slalomed back in to town, o erin a a ical l ine e erience ri ht in the heart of the city Locate outsi e bbey otel seasonal favourites such as mulled wine, cocktails, an hot chocolate are serve with a ran e of festive nibbles ri ht throu h the hrist as season www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk Li ite e ition hrist as esserts are co in to Creams Cafe on von treet uleti e treats inclu e he orable now an a e with white chocolate elato an ini erin ues an the reat ree a ulti layere chocolate cake stan in in a be of fresh sweet strawberries www.creamscafe.com lon with s ecial festive a a tations inclu in i s in blanket for the breakfast enu oose an turkey she her ’s ie an the in le Bells Fizz cocktail, The Ivy on ilso treet is e bracin the olar bear this year as its festive ecoration he Ivy Polar Bear hrist as trava an a will feature olar bear installations a orne in hrist as attire an there’s a Polar Bear afternoon tea e erience too with freshly bake fruit scones fin er san wiches an sweet eli hts with a festive twist www.ivycollection.com

Kasae Fraser in MasterChef: The Professionals

Winner Tareq Assaf, centre, with Andy Kemp and Michael Caines

YES, CHEF x 5! he finals of the outh est hef of the ear co etition which was co foun e by renowne chef ichael aines B recently took lace with the winners announce at an awar s cere ony at eter olf an ountry lub on st the ei ht cha ions were three local winners inclu in n rew enkinson hea chef at Luckna Park who scoo e the ain ri e of outh est hef of the ear n rew was also the winner of the Professional hef cate ory an took ho e the awar for best enu are ssaf fro Bath won outh est o e ook of the ear

he enu for the ni ht was re are by two revious winners an one of the co etition’s u es on starter was a aar e er sous chef at he ethuen r s in orsha who in won outh est oun Professional hef of the ear ain Nathan ohnson unior sous chef at the oyal rescent otel Bath who was last year’s outh est verall an oun Professional hef of the ear n essert hris le horn ichelin starre e ecutive hea chef at he live ree Bath an u e of outh est hef of the ear For more: www.southwestchef.co.uk

LEFT TO RIGHT: Andrew Jenkinson was a two-time winner; Chris Cleghorn,

Jamaar Semper, and Nathan Johnson, centre, provided the menu

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

FOOD & DRINK Were you ambitious early on?

Yes, I was always ambitious and had developed a greater love for food, so wanted to push the boundaries. The chef I would consider to be my mentor is Mark Lindsey, who drove me to achieve more. At one point in his career Mark was a head chef at the Savoy in London, and he gave e y first chef e artie role at Marriott Chepstow. So when did you first become a head chef?

I was 23 when I was given my first hea chef role an beca e manager of the year. At that point, I think I was the youngest head chef in Wales. Advice to be would be chefs?

Push yourself and have a vision. Never give up on what you want to do.

Who are your go-to suppliers?

KITCHEN GRILL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

CYRIL ROYER Executive head chef at Boho Marché at The Francis Hotel on ambition, shellfish and a French Christmas Cyril, who grew up in Limoges in central France near Poitier and now lives in Tylorstown in Wales, has had more than 14 years experience working as a head chef. A few of those lucky venues include The Corran Resort & Spa, where he worked for seven years, and Gravetye Manor, which holds a Michelin star. He is now head chef at The Francis Hotel’s signature restaurant, Boho Marché. When did you first become interested in food?

I’ve always had an interest in food from being a young child. I grew up on a farm where we grew and bred our own food in France, so it has always been a passion of mine. What is the first thing you remember cooking?

y a was the fifth best butcher in France and I loved to watch him cook. When I was about ten years old he started to show me the ropes and together we cooked a pate

82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with pommes de terre, a bit like dauphinoise potatoes in a brioche with salad – this was his signature dish. He made the most amazing brioche, and whatever was left over after breakfast would be used for the pate in the evening. Did you study catering?

A lot of people think you need to go to catering college and take a certain path to achieve and become a head chef, but I didn’t take that route. I wanted to learn and had a desire to be a chef so I watched YouTube tutorials, read a lot, experimented a lot. So where did you learn the fundamentals of being a chef?

I was originally taught the basics by the development chef at Borstall. That period of time in y life hu ely in uence y future decisions. I then went on to train in a hotel called Alysson Hotel in the Pyrenees. It was the mayor’s hotel and the most luxurious in town.

Green Street Butchers – the eat an fish su lier for alcot House, arguably the best meat and fish you can fin in Bath he uys at the shop are very skilled and knowledgeable, and always make sure you get the best deal. Where do you like to eat out in Bath?

There are so many great options, but one of my favourites is Walcot House – it has a great atmosphere with amazing food, in an artisan location. The team are great and make you feel like part of the lace n when you have finishe

devouring your meal, you can also have a little party at the Club Lomah at the back. Your desert island dish

I’m a big seafood lover, so anything seafoo y anythin shellfish works out well for a desert island! Best ever food memory

y u a e a eatloaf stu e in a courgette and wrapped in foil that was a family treat What’s your failsafe fast food recipe?

fter che n hours I’ll ake cous cous with beef stock and veg stock, and put in tuna and sweetcorn. Kitchen cupboard staples?

Tinned tuna, baked beans, sausages, and cous cous, which is my daughter’s favourite. Do you have a dinner party favourite?

Depends on the time of year. But in the colder months it’s roasted pumpkin, cabbage stew, and grilled meats. Your guilty pleasure?

Chocolate.

What makes up a traditional French Christmas dinner?

In France, we generally enjoy seafood, lobsters, oysters, bisque and roast beef. Where will you be spending Christmas Day?

Naturally, we’ve got lots of hotel guests so I’ll be working. It is actually one of my favourite days to work – the atmosphere is always great, people are happy, and I get to cook fabulous food. And what will you be eating on Christmas Day?

I doubt I’ll be cooking for myself, so aybe ust so e filet steak an grilled prawns in garlic butter with sour dough bread. Any chef secrets to cooking a great Christmas dinner?

Don’t rush it. Cook with love and take your time. It’s custom to have a drink of two whilst you’re cooking, but try not to drink too much as that is how you overcook the food. Just enough to make the cooking process a merry occasion! For more: www.francishotel.com TOP: Green Street Butchers for supplies; MIDDLE: Chocolate for a guilty pleasure; BOTTOM: Prawns in garlic butter for

Christmas Day

FASHION

JINGLE BELLE Do not opt for the comedy Christmas jumper, but embrace the evergreen chunky knit instead

By Marianne Cantelo

t’s impossible to deny that the atomic age of the 1950s produced truly inspiring fashion, with Christian Dior, Balenciaga and Chanel creating iconic, optimistic collections after the devastation of the war. Not only that, innovations in new ore a or able fabrics an manufacturing processes meant that beautiful clothes became more accessible to everyone. The female form was embraced with ra atic ra in scul tural ourishes an timeless easy grace. And then, in deeply ironic contrast, ‘jingle bell’ sweaters skied onto the scene. Yes, though the ori inal hrist as u ers first cro e up in Scandinavian culture as early as the 19th century, their aesthetically pleasing, natureinspired patterns were a far cry from the kitsch knitwear that started to become popular in the s o shoul we allow this horrific knitwear to remain a major legacy of the era? Choose the classic twinset instead. Cashmere or lamb’s wool in a pop of warm colour and you’ll get that festive feeling, without the style hangover of an over-embellished one wear

monstrosity. Combine it with satin pyjama trousers and you’ve got a real luxe loungewear look, or with a leather pair and it’s the perfect mix of cosy and edgy. Or why not choose a bright blanket scarf in an eclectic, eccentric pattern to add interest to a simple look? Thrown over the shoulders of an oversized trench, matched with wide leg jeans cropped to the ankle – pick a pair of erfect fine knit statement socks to draw the colour to your toes and give balance. If you are looking for a bohe ian avour lon line belted cardigans add cosy ’70s vibes into the season. Layered over maxi skirts with knee high boots, or brought into ‘now’ over a unitard (think Stephanie after dance practise in Saturday Night Fever), they are versatile pieces that ooze laid back glamour. You can without guilt invest in a Nordic inspired patterned chunky jumper, choosing

“Cashmere or lamb’s wool in a pop of warm colour and you’ll get that festive feeling”

3 2

THE EDIT

1. Willow wool Fair Isle turtleneck by Rag & Bone, was £450, now £225, from Square, 12 New Bond Street, Bath; www.squarebath.uk 2. Fringe detail jumper by Paul Smith, £300, from Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk 3. Beanie sweater, £199, from Cabbages & Roses, 3 West End, Bruton; www.cabbagesandroses.com

84 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

earthy rich tones an natural fibres for lon evity sustaining your warmth and conscience through winter walks, layering with padded denim jackets and borg collars, or even playing with texture by mixing them up with pleated or needle cord, over chunky Arran style tights. Time searching for a genuine vintage Guernsey in classic navy is well spent, with these classic heritage pieces being worthy of inclusion in last will and testaments. The slashed neck an fitte cut is atterin on ost an when you master staring o into the istance with a moody look and your hair whipping around you, you’ll feel like the star of a Hallmark movie – a cheesy Christmas in the best way. Another timeless option is the woolly Arran jumper, with leather buttons demanding the contrast of brushed cotton, the image of a heroine driving a busted up Beetle down narrow country lanes in the dark. Oatmeal sweaters evoke porridge but they don’t have to be stodgy, with trends this year giving us prefrayed hems and deliberately over-long sleeves. hese ieces channel a ine rench fil stars with troubled eyes, who are always borrowing their boyfriend’s clothes. Knitwear doesn’t have to be nostalgic or cute; nothing is sexier than an over-sized, soft sensual knit sli in o a shoul er in your erfect atch with a fine o en loo y knit kee in everything tactile over a satin or silk slip dress, jewel tones peeking through. Remember, what is popular at Christmas efinitely isn’t a arker of oo taste an purchasing something that is seasonally limited doesn’t feel like an ethical choice, either. Indulge instead in the spirit of the season without akin sartorial sacrifices an kee yourself warm to boot. Marianne Cantelo is the business development project manager for Dorothy House Hospice Care. The charity has 25 high street shops across the region selling fantastic pre-loved items, which provide a large part of its income, plus it also has an online shop. For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

Photos by Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com Makeup and hair by Chantelle Moody; Instagram @chantellemoody.makeup Model Chelsy James from Sway Models; www.swaymodels.com Styling Jennifer Lovell and Marianne Cantelo Clothes curated from the pre-loved donations at Dorothy House Shop; www.dorothyhouse.shop

BEAUTY FROM LEFT: Millie Flemington-Clare is the founder of Human Beauty; the 13 models featured, including Millie, represent every part of the queer rainbow; the Make-Up Therapy Palette costs £26

alkin with local cos etics entre reneur illie le in ton lare By Sarah Baker

illie le in ton lare isn’t your run of the ill beauty in uencer an cos etic co any foun er or a start she’s only years ol an she was born with a rare enetic lon ter con ition calle cystinosis that only a ects aroun eo le worl wi e It eans illie has ha nu erous o erations on her bones an two ki ney trans lants in the last four years n yet in that ti e illie who lives in Bath has create a ioneerin beauty bran u an Beauty which can be foun in u er ru an is bein stocke by Port an Bouti ue on ilso treet he has also been a anellist on the British Beauty ouncil feature in Cosmopolitan, won a Inclusive Innovations war rant fro the overn ent an been a art of this year’s Lon on ashion eek he ti es illie who is re istere isable was at her ost unwell actually beca e the catalyst for her future career ost of y chil hoo an teens were s ent in a hos ital an urin ti es of ba health ake u beca e y ick e u owever she also beco e increasin ly frustrate by the lack of re resentation of isabilities in the beauty in ustry Peo le with isabilities are the lar est inority rou akin u er cent of the worl ’s o ulation an is the only inority

86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

that anyone can beco e a art of at any oint in their life et only er cent of cos etic ro ucts are a e with the nee s of eo le of e tra nee s in in his is what a e e want to create u an Beauty which has accessibility an inclusivity at its core illie ra uate with a i ital arketin e ree co letin a ro uct evelo ent lace ent year with the international ake u bran Beauty Pie illie then reache out to anny ray foun er of ar Paint for en who she ha seen on BB ’s Dragon’s Den an he hel e her evelo u an Beauty I chose the na e because I use to try an fit in an I i n’t like what a e e uni ue says illlie But I be an to realise that every hu an is beautiful an it beca e the ethos of the bran that erfect is borin an hu an is beautiful n e a le of the kin of inclusive ro uct illie has evelo e is the Li ui onfi ence ascara s well as bein reat for every ay users it has a slante to bit to it so that if you can’t see it you know which way roun is correct an it has an o ni irectional ball so that anyone with obility issues can a ly it vertically an hori ontally he ake hera y Palette is or anise

ark to li ht with the sha es iven a r ation na es such as Empower, Proud, Individuality, and co es with co es that irect you to an au io escri tion vi eo illie has also ai attention to the accessibility of the u an Beauty website utilisin alt te t an has consi ere the rice oint which rices startin at because as she oints out er cent of isable eo le are une loye hen it ca e to launchin u an Beauty illie was eter ine to ake the ca ai n su er inclusive e ha o els re resentin every art of the ueer rainbow a es fro throu h to e ha a wo an in a hi ab so eone with albinis so eone with alo ecia e also ha so eone with a fee in tube which was i ortant to e because I ha a fee in tube u until I was illie is currently in ro uct evelo ent with a new blush stick as well as a a tive ake u brushes hat oes she think of herself now an how far she’s co e fro not likin what a e her i erent I now assert yself as a thou ht lea er an isru ter for accessible an a a tive beauty For more: www.humanbeauty.co.uk

“I assert myself as a disrupter for accessible and adaptive beauty”

SHINING A LIGHT ON TENNIS AT LANSDOWN New lights at Lansdown ensure all year round sports for all ages and levels. 8 of 11 tennis courts lit with the latest LED technology for brilliant evening play.

IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR BUDDING TENNIS PLAYERS!

Our gift vouchers can be used towards membership or to spend on food and drink at the bar! Available to buy from the office.

For more information about the club and our range of membership options, contact the office on: 01225 425763 or e-mail: reception@lansdownclub.co.uk The Lansdown Club, Northfields, Bath BA1 5TN www.lansdownclub.co.uk

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

Nigel Dando

11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT

REDEFINING BEAUTY

SAQUA BEAUTY CLINIC is determined to redefine beauty for its clients in Bath

AQUA Beauty Clinic started their journey in creating natural beauty many years ago and moved to their location, in The Corridor Arcade, just opposite City Hall, and a minute walk from Bath Abbey, in Bath just over a year ago. It specialises in many areas and all treatments are performed by Sevcan ‘Sev’ Caglar who has degrees in biology and management of health institutions. Sev also has more than quali cations related to skin and beauty treatments including micro-needle, anti-wrinkle, and dermal ller treatments.

REDEFINING BEAUTY AND FIGHTING AGAINST AGEING

Most people are using makeup, cosmetic creams or getting injectable treatments for signs of ageing. Most creams and makeup stay on top of the skin and don’t make any lasting results. Although SAQUA Beauty Clinic is very experienced and is creating great results with anti-wrinkle and dermal filler treatments, it also has other treatments that are unique to Bath right now.

UNIQUE TREATMENTS AT SAQUA BEAUTY CLINIC

DERMAPEN 4™ micro-needling is the most natural and effective treatment you can get. Instead of using other treatments to cover ageing, you can use it for treating fine lines and wrinkles, ageing/sun-damaged skin, active acne or acne scars, pigmentation, including melasma, enlarged pores, rosacea, scars and even for stretch marks. Dermapen 4™ treatment has two key benefits. It effectively stimulates collagen formation and provides a clear channel for specifically designed serums and active ingredients to be absorbed by the lower layers of the skin. Dermapen 4™ delivers the ultimate in advanced micro-needling and can create an astounding 1,920 puncture channels per second, up to 104 per cent faster than other micro-needling devices. DP Dermaceuticals are designed for Dermapen 4™ treatment and brings better results on micro-needling treatments. That means, you can achieve better results with three sessions while other devices can’t in six sessions.

LUNA MICROCARE® series is a high-precision local treatment based on natural hyaluronic acid in the form of self-dissolving micro-cones. The microstructure concentrates and precisely delivers the active ingredients to target areas of concern for the improvement of skin quality. Multi award winning (Women’s Health, Vogue and many more) micro-needling patches for using at home. These, designed in the United Kingdom, dermatologically tested and clinically proven products are now available at SAQUA Beauty Clinic. They are an authorised dealer and wholesaler of these amazing products in Bath, so you don’t need to make a trip to Harrods and don’t need to pay London prices for them. SAQUA Beauty Clinic is also authorised retailer for Image Skincare and DP Dermaceuticals products. All are great as a Christmas present for you or for your loved ones. PARIS SHINE, NCTF® 135+HA Mesotherapy is made in France and is an anti-ageing mesotherapy product indicated for intense revitalization, hydration of tired or loose skin, treatment of wrinkles and optimizing skin brightness and radiance. Paris Shine NCTF135HA is a unique, positive pro-ageing, poly-revitalising solution that provides the dermis with 55 essential ingredients it needs to thrive. It creates the optimal environment to boost fibroblasts activity, which are responsible for the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. NCTF® 135HA stimulates the skin without changing the facial features or expressions. Containing free HA, the New Cellular Treatment Factor (NCTF®) smooth out fine lines, restores radiance, deeply nourishes the skin and increases density of the dermis.

For free consultation please book online at www.saqua.co.uk or pop into our clinic at 18 The Corridor, Bath, BA2 5AP. To see our results please check us out on Instagram and Facebook @saquabeauty www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

Thank you to all the South West business leaders, academics and alumni who joined us for our first Inspiring Business event at University of Bath, School of Management. The open house event explored the innovation and ambition of local businesses and how the School can guide and support the region's vibrant eco-system. We look forward to continuing the conversation with you all! Please scan the QR code to keep an eye out for future events

NETWORK

THE CITY’S HOTTEST BUSINESS NEWS

NATURALLY SOCIAL

RACING WORLD

The marketing agency on the joy of winning a Bath Life Award

How a Bath entrepreneur is creating trainers out of tyres

SHEPPARD’S DELIGHT

HIGH STREET GIANT

The colourful career path of SBS Design & Build’s Nathan Sheppard

Clothes store Zara arrives in SouthGate

SIMPLY DIVINE

A stunning collab of wallpaper X swimwear

TO A HIGHER LEVEL PROFESSOR IAN WHITE AND HIS ROLE IN THE MANY ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BATH

PHOTO BY BET T Y BHANDARI

NETWORK Professor Ian White being interviewed by MediaClash chief exec Greg Ingham at the Royal Crescent Hotel

TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP PROFESSOR IAN WHITE on the rise and rise of the University of Bath

t was another sell-out event at the recent Bath Life Network Lunch at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, this time with Professor Ian White, the vice chancellor of the University of Bath, as guest speaker. In an interview with the chief exec of MediaClash, Greg Ingham, he spoke about the university’s achievements and the si nificant chan es that have occurre under his tenure, plus his personal plans for the future. Professor White, who was educated at the Belfast Royal Academy and Jesus College, Cambridge, opened with what drew him to a life in academia. “Even from school days, I’d always been interested in research and I’ve been interested in having the opportunities and the privilege, I think, that universities give one to be able to research in ways that can be driven by oneself. That motivated me to move into university life.” The move into a more ‘managerial’ role had happened rather unexpectedly, and was more a result of “being press-ganged”, he admitted, than his own personal aspirations. It was his experiences at Cambridge University, where his many appointments included van Eck Professor of Engineering, pro-vice92 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

chancellor for Institutional airs and Master of Jesus College, that he believed laid the foundation for his transition into management. Press-ganged he may have been, but the results for the University of Bath under his tenure have certainly been press worthy. It was noted that the University, established in just 1966, had undergone a seismic change in a very few years – from a relatively modest-sized university in the early ’90s with 3,700 students, it has grown to roughly 20,000 students an sta With its growth has come success – it has been ranked 5th best university in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2024; named University of the Year by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023; and comparing institutions listed in the Guardian University Guide, Bath topped the student satisfaction rankings among English universities in the National Student Survey 2022, placing 3rd overall in the UK. It is may be of this last accolade that Professor White seems most proud. “Working with the students to create a great university is key to success. What sets the University of Bath apart is its commitment to being an inclusive community, characterised by excellence in education, research, and innovation.” The university’s growth has not only been in scale but also in its areas of expertise. While maintaining its original ethos, the institution

consulted extensively with students, sta an those a liate with the University to shape its strategy, with community and quality forming the core values. Discussing students’ time at university he outline five key qualities to ensure a well-rounded, as well as high achieving, education: “1 being well-taught. 2 being encouraged to be ambitious and well-achieving. 3 gaining practical experience through placements. 4 being grounded in the university community, and lastly, 5, actively participating in sports and arts.” While he may not have taught whilst being vice chancellor, Professor White revealed he still engages with his Cambridge University research group once a month. “It helps to keep some appreciation of working with researchers and, more importantly, working with students. The perspectives you learn, the freshness they give you, particularly for people like me, is really helpful.” The near hour-long interview

“WHAT SETS THE UNIVERSITY OF BATH APART IS ITS COMMITMENT TO BEING AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY” PROFESSOR IAN WHITE

delved into a further range of topics, including the role of universities in the UK, the earnings gap between graduates and non-graduates, and the value of a rounded education beyond just salary, with questions also taken from the Bath Life Network Lunch guests. Professor White’s candour, both from a personal and organisational perspective, resonated throughout the room, as well as his humility regarding the accolades achieved by the University under his tenure, which is now drawing to a close. e ectin on his i en in departure, Professor White expressed gratitude for the support and announced a sabbatical period before returning to “the day job”. He said, “It’s a good time for someone else to come along. My wife think it’ll be all DIY and the grandchildren, but actually the university’s been very kind. So I’m having a sabbatical period and then see how it goes. “I did some start ups and still have an interest in them, and the research associated with them, but also, I’ve never actually said what I think about the university system, and there’s a very excellent institute of Higher Education management, so maybe I’ll get involved with that.” Professor Ian White leaves behind a transformed university and a legacy of leadership that has propelled it to new heights. For more: www.bath.ac.uk | www.mediaclash.co.uk

IN ACTION AT THE BATH LIFE NETWORK LUNCH Photos by Betty Bhandari; www.bettybhandaribrandphotography.com

Annika Scott and Francesca Watson

Karen Williams and Simon Knowler A delicious two-course lunch is part of the event

Matthew Turner and Julia Stock

Polly Rathbone Ward, Pascal Loizeau, and Wera Hobhouse

Polly Hill and Sunjay Singh Zac Fennell

Becky Gallagher and Ian White

Stephen Wyatt and Bryn Williams

The guests enjoyed drinks in Montagu’s bar before the Bath Life Network talk and lunch

Scott Eanes and James Millar

Wayne Brown and Simon Wear

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

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HELPING YOU THRIVE

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to have a large range of clients, predominantly made up of owner-managed businesses, ranging from sole traders and partnerships to companies. I handle a range of tax issues, including income and corporation tax, as well as capital gains tax, and inheritance tax.

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WHAT IS THE ONE BIGGEST BIT OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE AT THE START OF THE CALENDAR YEAR?

e speak to Karen Williams, general practice director, at Milsted Langdon – a local fir of accountants and business advisers based in central Bath, about the advice she would give as we approach the new year and what she enjoys about working in Bath. s a fir we’re fortunate to have an incre ible breadth and depth of services for our clients – from the usual services that you’d expect such as audit, accountancy and tax compliance, to a range of advisory and specialist services including VAT and tax planning, forensic accounting, restructuring and insolvency, and business innovation. Personally I am a general practice accountancy and tax specialist and am lucky

“I’VE HAD A VERY WARM WELCOME FROM MILSTED LANGDON’S BATH TEAM” 94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The New Year period is often seen as a time for re ection an while it is oo to assess your performance in the previous year, it is just as important to adapt or create new strategies for the year ahead – and, more importantly, begin to take action on them as soon as you can. In addition, it’s an important time to have a pre-year-end planning meeting with your accountant to think about your options as we approach the end of the tax year, such as topping up an ISA, contributing towards your retirement by topping up pension contributions (possibly bringing forward unused allowances from the previous three tax years, as long as you were a member of the pension scheme within those years), saving for your children through a Junior ISA (the annual

allowance for a JISA in 2023/24 is £9,000) or a longer-term option of contributing into a stakeholder pension for children, and using any capital gains tax allowance (depending on individual circumstances). WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT WORKING IN BATH?

Bath is a fantastic lace to work our o ce at 4 Queen Street is perfectly located to meet my clients and contacts in town – and being ust o ilso treet akes it i eal for a s ot of lunchtime window shopping! I’ve had a very warm welcome from Milsted Langdon’s Bath team and have already been getting out and about at a number of excellent local networking events to catch up with familiar faces and make new connections, with the aim of becoming integrated in Bath’s close-knit business community. With the darker evenings upon us and the Christmas lights up, I’m looking forward to Bath’s iconic Christmas Market and picking up some gifts from local suppliers! For further information or to get in touch with Karen and the team, email advice@milstedlangdon.co.uk.

NETWORK

venues in the evenings. Sadly there isn’t enough money in this industry to support a rapidly growing family, and this is when I decided to throw all my energy back into the building trade and make SBS the company it is today. When was SBS Design & Build established? In 2006 as a sole trader, and it grew into a full business in 2008.

CAREER PATH

NATHAN SHEPPARD

He’s been a holiday rep, luthier, and TV presenter and now owns one of Bath’s leading construction companies, SBS Design & Build

athan, who grew up in Keynsham and now lives in Bathampton with his wife and their four children, is the managing director of SBS Design & Build, Vyoo, and Kitchens by Nolte, but his route to his present position is far from predictable, as our Career Path interview with him reveals. He describes himself as a secondgeneration builder, with his dad having taught him the tools of the trade, and started out as a oneman band converting garages and building small extensions,. He now handles some of the most prestigious developments in Bath and Bristol, with B esi n Buil o erin a complete, wrap-around service for your building project. You credit your father with training you in this field of work. Tell us a little more about that My dad is my hero and, although I initially thought I would do a totally

i erent line of work I love bein with him on sites. The atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the ability to make people’s dreams a reality was such a draw. Unfortunately he had to retire early due to health issues, so we didn’t get as many years working together as I would have liked. Did you always intend to work in construction? I initially moved away but it pulled me back in. I started general building, but my skills within carpentry were where I excelled the most, as I have the creative and precise skills needed to be successful. What jobs did you do before? When I left school, I became a Haven Mate for the holiday camp as a singer and entertainer. I later, with a brief spell as an estate agent in the middle, was a singer and presenter in Austria and Tenerife. When I came back to the UK I trained as a luthier (guitar maker) and spent my days making musical instruments whilst performing in clubs and music

What were the early days like? Construction is a tough industry, and proving to the community that you are a reliable and skilled professional takes time. I was fortunate that the majority of my clients came from recommendations from previous work. Loyalty, honesty and quality have always been recognised and rewarded. Any moment you have been particularly proud of? My amazing team and I are incredibly proud that SBS Design & Build has won Contractor of the Year two out of the last three years at the Bath Property Awards. We were also thrilled to win a regional LABC (Local Authority Building Control) award for best conversion of an existing property this year. And, in January 2024, we will be going on to represent the West of England in the national finals What changes have you seen over the years? The popularity of TV shows like Grand Designs and the surge of Instagram and Pinterest has created the illusion that these high-quality, vastly expensive projects are obtainable for everyone, which sadly just isn’t the case. However, we always work with people to give them the best project for their investment. Weren’t you also on a TV show for while…? A strange turn of events saw me as the lead builder on a prime time BBC1 DIY TV show back in 2014. Unfortunately it wasn’t very good, but the experience was fun and I did beat o a licants to et the role so I look back on that period fondly.

“I SPENT MY DAYS MAKING MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS WHILST PERFORMING IN CLUBS IN THE EVENINGS”

As well as your dad, is there someone in the business that you admire and try learn from? Ben Lang from Stonewood has been a fantastic mentor to me over the years. We met on the Federation of Master Builders board several years ago and both share a mutual passion to improve the construction industry. Some people might see it as odd that competing companies can share this passion, but I believe we both have a commitment to excellence that is improved from sharing our experiences of this ever-evolving industry, and a friendship has evolved. Any other local businesses you’d like to name check? There are so many companies that are fundamental in the day to day running of SBS. We use Walcot Fabrication for our steel, AJH for our zinc detailing, the Floorsmith for all our oorin nee s throu h to he Good Bear Café for our breakfast meetings to Didi’s Cakes for any essential sweet treats. Freestyle do all our signs – the list could go on! And, finally, in what other ways does being Bath-based help your business? The community in Bath is fantastic. I’ve experienced the value of connecting with people. Bath has such a vibrant and skilled hub of businessmen and women and I just love being a part of that. I am a true believer of supporting others in their businesses, and working together to benefit each other an the local area For more: www.sbsdesignandbuild.com | www.vyoowindows.com | www.kitchensbynolte.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

ON THE UP

Bath City Farm receives a grant boost Spanish owned Zara brings its popular fashion to Bath

SHOP TALK Bath has welcomed the fashion store Zara into the SouthGate fold. The 32,000 square foot store, located in the space previously occupied by Topshop, o ers wo enswear enswear an childrenswear, as well as having a dedicated beauty department. Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, says, “It’s been great to see how excited our customers have been about the

SPARE TYRE Bath-based Alex Witty has unveiled a new brand of trainer, Compound Footwear, made with used tyres. Alex, who studied Sustainable Product Design at the University of Brighton, says, “When the Australian Grand Prix was cancelled in 2020, I heard that 1,800 brand-new tyres were scrapped and shipped back to the UK to be incinerated. I was shocke to fin out that most motorsport tyres are burnt after each race, and felt that surely I coul fin a better use for them. “Over the past two years, I’ve engaged with tyre manufacturers, shoe producers, material scientists and race series organisers, including Formula 1 and Formula E. “Our motorsport-inspired sneakers are made using a patented process to combine used

96 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

arrival of Zara in the lead up to the opening, and I have no doubt the new store will be a hugely popular addition to our e istin fashion retail o erin “The store has launched in time for the festive shopping period, giving our visitors even more choice for Christmas gifts and seasonal fashion.” For more: www.southgatebath.com | www.zara.com

Alex was shocked to learn how many Grand Prix tyres are incinerated

BATH CITY FARM has won a £50,000 pollinator grant from West of England Mayoral Combined Authority. This will enable the 37acre community green space charity to create habitats for year-round feeding, breeding and shelter for pollinators. LAW FIRM THRINGS has been ranked by The Times as one of the best legal bodies in the country for the second consecutive year. The Times Top 250 Law Firms surveys those in the legal industry to recognise the most highly regarded organisations in the field, with the firm’s family lawyer team being specifically commended. THE SOMERSET TOILETRY CO., which produces more than 1.4 million bars of soap annually, recently won Best Newcomer Manufacturer at Business Awards UK 2023. LARA SHEARD, A STUDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BATH, has won a 2023 Generation Google Scholarship for Women in Computer Science, and €7,000 in prize money, in recognition of her academic excellence and passion for technology. Student Lara Shard is a Google winner

race tyre rubber with recycled natural rubber to create the shoe soles.” At the end of their natural life, Compound Footwear sneakers, which have received support from Silverstone, can be recycled into 100 per cent reusable raw materials to make new shoes and products. For more: www.compoundfootwear.com

PHOTO BY VR ANCH VISUALS

NETWORK BUSINESS DIARY 4 DECEMBER Bath Life Network Lunch at Royal Crescent Hotel with Robert Campbell from BANES Council; www.mediaclash.co.uk

Bath, meeting at Newton Farm Shop & Café; www.freelancemum.co.uk 15 JANUARY Bath Life Awards nominations close; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

7 DECEMBER How businesses can benefit from solar: a webinar presented by Your Eco in conjunction with Bath Life; www.mediaclash.co.uk

Rachael Luckham, Maya Dolmna-Bowles, Natalie Luckham, Nancy Lewendon

BATH LIFE AWARDS WINNERS

NATURALLY SOCIAL

Natalie Luckham founder and director of the social-first marketing agency on why, if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again BUSINESS SERVICES WINNER

29 FEBRUARY Bath Life Awards 2024, hosted at Bath Pavilion; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

7 DECEMBER 3SG Third Sector networking social at Newark Works; www.3sg.org.uk 12 JANUARY Freelance Mum Netwalk

16 APRIL Property Symposium at Bristol’s M-Shed with expert speakers focussing on sustainability; www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Divine Savages X Byroses collection

SPONSORED BY Well done on the win! What made you enter Naturally Social in the first place? I really wanted to shout about the hard work the team were doing and how we had really worked hard to deliver great results for our clients. It was really important to me that we had team recognition, and not just for me as a founder. Who did you meet on the night? We were sat with Richardson Swift and had a lovely time getting to know them all, a couple of whom we still keep in touch with now. Have you entered before? e’ve been a finalist for three years now so I feel like I’ve learnt a lot about the application process and have also been even more driven year after year to get the win. And yes, we will be entering again this year!

“UTILISING SOCIAL MEDIA AS A FORCE OF SOCIAL GOOD, HELPING BUSINESSES MAXIMISE THEIR BRAND AWARENESS” BATH LIFE JUDGES

Any advice for someone else thinking of entering? Persevere. If you believe in what you do, and that it’s truly award-winning, keep applying. If you’re not successful, ask for feedback and adapt each time. For more: www.naturallysocial.co.uk

BE A PART OF BATH LIFE AWARDS 2024 Planning is well under way and nominations have opened for the 2024 Bath Life Awards, which will once again be a mighty celebration of the best of Bath businesses, innovators, charities, and creatives. Due to take place on Thursday 29 February 2024 at the Bath Pavilion, there are opportunities to be a direct part of this spirit-raising, community-praising event, with various sponsorship packages on offer, all backed by multi-platform promotion. For further details, email pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk, annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk, or kate.griffiths@mediaclash.co.uk For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

PRINTS CHARMING The Bath-based wallpaper and fabric design house Divine Savages has collaborated with the luxury slow-fashion brand Byroses to present a limited-edition, ultra-luxurious collection. The all-gender luxe satin lounge and swimwear, which is made from recycled single-use plastic bottles, has been given Divine Savages treatment with an all-over Bloomin’ Marvellous oral rint Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, which is about to open a showroom on Margaret’s Place, says, “The collaboration has given us both a chance to experiment. At Divine Savages, we’ve always been passionate about fashion trends and have been keen to dip our toe into fashion, whereas Byroses has never used rint before his has been a chance to stri back the ru es an extreme silhouettes in exchange for cleaner shapes that let the print do all the talking.” For more: www.divinesavages.com | www.byroses.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

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NEW BUSINESS THINKING DAVID THOMPSON shares how performance principles from elite sport deliver scale-up success

etting to grips with performing under pressure and the value of goal setting started early as a six-year-old on the tennis court. I ranked 5th in the UK as a junior layer which le to a scholarshi at illfiel School. This marked the beginning of my lifelong love of Somerset, a shift from tennis to rugby, and the satisfaction of collective success. At 18, I represented England Rugby Under 21s and secured a professional contract with Saracens. Coached by Sir Clive Woodward, playing alongside legends like Jonny Wilkinson and captained by Francois Pienaar, were incredible experiences that equipped me with invaluable insights; particularly the factors which determine the i erence between success an failure the itch I saw those sa e performance principles at play in business. After co-founding and selling a leading international sports marketing agency and working with organisations including Coca-Cola, BMW and the FA Premier League, I went on to pursue psychology, counsellin an coachin ualifications My passion around providing support for leaders and teams, and the chance to combine everything I’ve learned throughout my career, was the inspiration for my coaching business, Winsight Performance. The Executive MBA at the University of Bath, School of Management underpinned my practical business experience with theoretical understanding that feeds into my work daily. The course concluded with a ‘Capstone Project’ and the opportunity for me to conduct extensive research on my specialism: people-related challenges facing businesses as they grow. ’It’s lonely at the top’ was a common phrase in so many conversations. What comes through loud and clear when I meet entre reneurs an lea ers for the first ti e is how isolated they feel, particularly during the critical shift from start-up to scale-up.

“IN ELITE SPORT AND BUSINESS, YOU NEED TO HAVE AMBITION…” It’s when the weight of responsibility sets in an is a erio frau ht with firefi htin The increasing need to ‘lead’ rather than ‘do’, coupled with the lack of neutrality from colleagues, friends and family, leaves people without an outlet for constructive re ection In elite sport and business, you need to have ambition – a dream that gets you out of bed in the morning, but that alone is not enough. Success ultimately comes down to having a clear strategy and executing with ruthless consistency.

guidance. I truly believe you go further if you go together, and this encapsulates the essence of Winsight’s approach. The Winsight Performance Model provides structure with a six-step framework that gives lea ers an their tea s clarity confi ence and control around the big decisions and helps to create the best possible environment for businesses to enjoy sustained success. To nd o t more oin s at ana ement eets avid T om son i ste s to s a e s ess on T rsda e em er

In sport, the support of a coach in developing and executing this plan is a given. Now, more business leaders are seeking similar www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99

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WHY YOU NEED A WILL Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains...

esearch by Which shows that almost two thirds of us have no will in place. About half of those interviewed (so about one third of us) said they had nothing worth leaving, and the remaining interviewees were pretty evenly divided between it not having occurred to them or being ‘too busy’. There is an assumption that ‘the law will sort it out’ if no will is left. And in some cases, the laws of intestacy will do the necessary – but that should not be taken for granted! And if you need evidence for that then it is a sobering thought that in the last five years or so the number of people requesting advice on how to challenge a will has risen by 120 per cent. Your estate may well be more valuable than you think. For example, people often forget that they have insurance policies which may pay out to their estate on death. Married couples and couples in civil partnerships often assume that if one of them dies the other will inherit everything. Not necessarily true! If the couple are childless then the spouse/civil partner will inherit, but if they have children then the spouse/civil partner will inherit the deceased spouse’s personal possessions, the first £322,000 of their assets (the value of which may include the value of their interest in the couple’s home) and one half of anything over and above that. The rest will pass to the children. There have been cases where a bereaved spouse has had to sell their home to pay out their children. Talking of marriage and civil partnerships, couples need to bear in mind that, if they have made wills before marrying or becoming civil partners, those wills will be revoked by that marriage or partnership unless they have been expressly made ‘in contemplation’ of it. Married couples of those in a civil partnerships who have separated in contemplation of divorce will still inherit if the death of their spouse/ partner occurs before the divorce is finalised. The situation is more complex for those who live together but are not legally married or partnered. These now form a very significant part of our population. Currently some 4 million people are in this sort of relationship and the number is growing. Many of those involved believe that they will have rights as ‘common-law spouses’ but there are no such rights under the laws of intestacy. The estate of one party to such

“THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE REQUESTING ADVICE ON HOW TO CHALLENGE A WILL HAS RISEN BY 120 PER CENT” an arrangement will pass to his or her nearest family member, not their cohabitee. It is very important to understand this when, for example, buying a home together. The way you own the property (as tenants in common or as beneficial joint tenants) will make an enormous difference to the way in which the deceased person’s interest in it is dealt with on their death. This is not to say that an individual who survives their partner cannot challenge the position which has arisen as a result of the intestacy. If they were being or ought to have been being supported by the deceased in his or her lifetime then they may make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. But claims of this kind are notoriously expensive to bring – and they are slow. It may be years before things are finalised.

There is no sense in leaving things in such a state that this avenue is the only one available to one’s partner. The expected cost of making a will can be a deterrent, of course, and the press is expert at bandying around some pretty terrifying figures, but you would probably be pleasantly surprised by the real cost – and if you are a charity supporter you may take advantage of a free will scheme run by solicitors in support of certain charities (we run such a scheme for Amnesty in March and for the Friends of the RUH later in the year – if you leave the charity something in your will we give our time drafting it free of charge). So cost is not a good excuse!

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT. tel: 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101

10 ST JAMES’S SQUARE A glorious Georgian gem with a gilt-edged interior By Elsie Chadwick

his is the kind of beautiful, giltedged, almost palatial home we can imagine Good King Wenceslas looking out from, over a perfect scene of snowy Christmas Day tranquillity. Fit for royalty, this is a rare opportunity to own and be a part of Bath’s history. The four bedroom home is one of the 45 houses designed by the renowned Bath architect John Palmer between 17901794, and stands as a testament to his architectural brilliance, with each home on the resulting St James’s Square facing the private gated communal garden with lawn, mature trees, spring bulbs and seating. It also happens to be the only Grade I listed residential Georgian squares in the country.

102 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Elevated beyond the normal to surpass all expectations”

Whilst the exterior is unashamedly glorious Georgian, inside you’ll be transported to 4,145 sq ft of enchanting space where timeless luxury abounds. As you step through the elegant entrance hallway, the sense of grandeur and opulence envelops you. Each room is a true labour of love, meticulously renovated, elevated beyond the normal to surpass all expectations. Opulent and historical charm blend with modern sophistication in every high ceilinged room, from the decorative moulding to the wall wainscotting and from the timber sash windows to the cast iron radiators. he ft rawin roo o ers a s ace where classic design meets contemporary comfort. Adjacent, the withdrawing room boasts a balcony that opens onto vistas of St James’s Square and the meticulously maintained communal gardens. The whole residence e ito es the very efinition of refine livin with a grand 21ft dining room too. Even the prep beforehand

PROPERTY

will be one with anache in the bes oke kitchen a orne with a lar e arble breakfast bar a culinary haven where every aesthetic etail alon with ractical an functional nee s has been carefully consi ere scen the half lan in where another balcony invites you to ause an a reciate the surroun in s he ft aster be roo with its en suite bathroo is a sanctuary of lu ury wo a itional ouble be roo s each with its own en suite bathroo o er a retreat for fa ily an uests here’s a further ouble be roo too featurin its own wet roo an a cloakroo

HOUSE NUMBERS Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Reception rooms Guide price

£2.85million

Parterre garden For more: Whiteley Helyar, 6 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.whiteleyhelyar.co.uk

his eor ian townhouse oesn’t ust o er livin s aces it rovi es a canvas for your new an i rove lifestyle with a storeroo an wine cellar to cater to connoisseurs while two vaulte roo s resent en less ossibilities for custo isation he rear of the resi ence unfol s into a eli htful walle west facin ar en with a erfectly sy etrical arterre of bo he es an a screen wall of elevate leache hornbea to rovi e further rivacy t a es’s uare is not ust a ro erty it’s a livin le acy waitin for new custo ians to weave their stories into its alrea y rich ta estry

PHOTO BY ADAM CLUT TERBUCK

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

TOWERING SUCCESS

Another year and another raise the roof celebration at the Bath Property Awards

ack for another vital year, 2023’s Bath Property Awards on 3 November was the biggest yet; once again it took place at Apex City of Bath Hotel, where the great and the good gathered to recognise the achievements of a prestigious array of property professionals from across the region. A diverse and dynamic collection of companies and business leaders entered this year too with the final selection of winners judged by Andrew Sperring, David Mackenzie, Ian Parkes, Kevin Gray, Pratibha Mistry, Sarah Campbell and Toni Riddiford. With more categories than ever before, ranging from civic and sustainability to rising stars and national powerhouses, the awards – quite understandably – attracted more no inations an finalists too akin this year’s shindig both bold and brilliant. Nearly 300 people descended upon the Apex, starting with a champagne reception which allowed for plenty of networking, followed by a three-course lunch before the long-awaited

ceremony got underway. This year it was hosted by BBC Breakfast presenter Siân Lloyd, alongside the regular co-host – and MediaClash chief executive – Greg Ingham, and featured a well-received opening speech from Finn Miles of oofin the hea line s onsor Special recognition goes to the inspiring team at Mitchell Eley Gould Architects, who scooped up not only the Residential Development and Rising Star Awards, but also the overall Winner of Winners Award for the most universally agreed-upon achievement of the year. The judges said of Mitchell Eley Gould Architects: “Clever design thinking and a nurturing ethos came to the fore this year, both in its array of appealing projects and the development of its team.” As has become tradition with these Awards, however, the winners were just one important aspect of the event. The property industry is renowned for its energy and sociability, and this ceremony was no exception – colleagues, clients and companions came together, built contacts

Anticipating the start of the Bath Property Awards at the Apex Hotel

and laid the foundations for future projects they might all work on. Also vital for the Award’s ongoing success are the many local indie businesses who support them, knowing how vital they are for the ongoing health of this sector, and – beyond that – the community at large. MediaClash, long term organisers of the event – and publisher of Bath Life, of course – has ambitions to create a much greater impact on the sector in 2024, and has already announced that the awards will return next autumn. And, in the meantime, there’s the annual Property Symposium in April to enjoy too, which will this time around be exploring sustainability in the construction industry. Turn overleaf for the winners’ gallery, shot by Beata os rove an then i to a e for our society action images taken by the photographer Adam Clutterbuck. How many faces do you recognise? For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS 2023 WINNERS!

Tough decisions, much deliberation, and, finally, here are the champions Winners photos by Beata Cosgrove; www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

ARCHITECT – SRA ARCHITECTS

CIVIC DEVELOPMENT – BAILEYS COURT PRIMARY SCHOOL, WESTERN BUILDING CONSULTANTS

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT – BATH CRICKET CLUB AND CENTURION HOUSE, STRIDE TREGLOWN

CONSULTANCY – ARENA GLOBAL MANAGEMENT

CONTRACTOR – SBS DESIGN AND BUILD

COWORKING SPACES – BATH OFFICE CO.

DEVELOPER – ASHFORD HOMES

EMPLOYER – WESTERN BUILDING CONSULTANTS

106 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

(HIGHLY COMMENDED: BPM CONTRACTING SERVICES)

(HIGHLY COMMENDED: SRA ARCHITECTS)

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

FINANCIAL – UNIVIDUAL

INTERIOR DESIGNER – WALTER RUGGIERO DESIGN

LEGAL – GA ENERGY

ONE TO WATCH – VYOO

PROPERTY AGENT – JAINE WHITFIELD BESPOKE ESTATE AGENTS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT – NOOK OF BATH

(HIGHLY COMMENDED: LUCRA MORTGAGES)

(HIGHLY COMMENDED: BUILD TWENTYTWO)

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT – CAMDEN ROW, MITCHELL ELEY GOULD ARCHITECTS

SUSTAINABILITY – YOUR ECO

RISING STAR – JAKE RICHARDSON, MITCHELL ELEY GOULD ARCHITECTS (HIGHLY COMMENDED: HARRY ROBINSON, MEA CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS)

SUPPLIER AND SERVICES – BATH PAINTERS & DECORATORS

TRANSFORMATION – HOUSE FOR A VIOLINIST, KLAS HYLLEN ARCHITECTURE AND CRAFT RENOVATIONS

WINNER OF WINNERS – MITCHELL ELEY GOULD ARCHITECTS www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

Continued from overleaf Photos by Adam Clutterbuck Photography www.adamclutterbuckphotography.com

Siân Lloyd

Megan Appleby, Minx Butt, and Jacob Butt

Pete Helme and Patrick Brady

Alexandra Stephenson, Elliot Cotterell, Oliver Cotterell, James Thomas, Annabel North, Andrew Watmuff, Amanda Cooper, Clemmie Cornwell and Isabel Kaye

Matthew Wedding, Neil Atkinson, Joseph Wedding, and Peter Blackmore Cherie-Anne Baxter

Sam George and James Dean Xxx, Duncan Haddrell and xxx Michael Musgrove and Raj Chakraborty

108 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Jamie Butt, Gary Fisher, and Dan Lohn Annie Kelly and Xander Opoku

Fin Miles

EXETER PROPERTY AWARDS

The MediaClash team

Ashford Homes celebrate Ali Woodhead

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception on arrival

John White Xxx

Cat Johnson, Raj Chakraborty, Miles Robinson, Rhys Jones, Helen Rumford, and Emily Oram Marcus Whittington

Jamie Williams

Natalie Carpenter, Tom Griffiths, Helen Carey, Josh Watts, Neil Craggs, Brian Levine, Shaz Sharfraz, Ross Siviter, and Chris Harris Pat White and Emma Summers

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 109

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

NEW TO MARKET: AWARDS 2024 For Early Bird discounts, contact: bathlife@mediaclash.co.uk

BATHPROPERTYAWARDS.CO.UK | #BATHPROPERTYAWARDS

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

BATH LIVES

“Christmas can be a really tough time of year for some people ” At the end of the shift, we offload to our leader. It’s a

chance to discuss anything that has a ecte us an if we ha a particularly tough call, they will reach out to us the next day. We support and listen to each other.

KAREN BALDWIN The co-director of Bath and District Samaritans on becoming a listener The Samaritans, which was established 70 years ago, has answered 134 million calls in the last seven decades. Nationwide, 23,000 people volunteer with the Samaritans, and about 170 of them are in the Bath branch. One of these Bath-based volunteers is Karen Baldwin who, like all Samaritans, volunteers under a different name; here she tells us about how she started with the charity, and what it’s like over the Christmas period. I joined the Samaritans in October 2018 and became a

full Samaritan late summer 2019. When a good friend joined, I found it fascinating to hear what a listener for the Samaritans does. It is emotionally demanding, of course, but also extremely rewarding.

114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The training is amazing and terrifying. It is an intense

initial six-week period, followed by mentored shifts in branch, embedding sessions, and then a six-month probationary erio aroun a year fro start to finish hen there’s the dreaded skills practice, where other Samaritans ‘call’ in to test you I foun it really i cult especially as some volunteers are very good at acting! There are always at least two of us on duty in the listening room, supported

by a leader who is available on the phone. Sometimes your shift partner will need support urin a call it can really hel to have someone else on hand to o er a su estion ake a call to the emergency services, or just make you a cup of tea when you’re feeling exhausted.

We listen actively, without pressure or judgement. We

don’t give advice but provide a space for people to talk, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Samaritans are there when sometimes there is no-one else, to hear the stories that people feel they can’t otherwise share.

In 2022, someone in the UK died by suicide every 90 minutes, and suicidal feelings

are expressed in almost 1 in 4 calls. Suicide is complex, and rarely caused by one thing. It’s not necessarily inevitable – whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. It often feels a real privilege to be trusted with someone’s story. We hear about whatever is on the caller’s mind: relationships, finance health bereave ent family, abuse, addiction, isolation – anything they might need to talk about.

We also have a team who support listeners in a local prison. You’ll see us

at foodbanks, in schools, at wellbeing events in our local universities, at army welfare

events, at railway stations. Last year the Bath branch took 27,827 calls, 1,219 online chats, and had 101 face-to-face interactions at outreach events. It is humbling to see how quickly the Christmas rota fills up – we are usually sent priority

shifts to cover so there are branches open throughout the country at all times. The calls are both i erent an the sa e a lot of issues don’t go away because it’s Christmas, and it can be a really tough time of year for some people with increased isolation. Also, reduction in other services and usual places or ways to cope.

We run many training programmes in branch, with new Samaritans coming through constantly. As well

as listening volunteers, we have support Samaritans who do a yria of obs fro finance to admin to maintenance. Some of the volunteers have been with Bath and District Samaritans for more than 40 years.

We are funded entirely by donations, so we’re grateful for

any donations or legacies. Or people can run for us at the Bath Half and raise money that way. The Samaritans are available 24 hours 7 days a week by calling 116 123 For more: www.samaritans.org

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